I am grateful for the opportunity to explore composition for orchestra in relationship with the Worthing Philharmonic Orchestra and Dominic Grier, their musical director.
The Worthing Philharmonic Orchestra has been contributing to the cultural life in Worthing since 1948 and wants to enable composers with their composer in residence scheme to bring new music to musicians and audiences alike. Their current musical director, Dominic Grier (right side of picture) brings enthusiasm and professionalism to their music making, which I have seen first hand. He is widely acknowledged as a “young conductor of distinction” and among other engagements teaches at the Royal Academy of Music in London, is principal conductor of their Junior Symphony Orchestra and guest conductor at the Royal Ballet in Birmingham.
As part of my final project at the University of Sussex I was priviledged to be able to attend a series of rehearsals with the WPO. My aim was to glean insight into composition and orchestration. I was able to identify a variety of performance techniques and details about different instruments realting to their sound and abilities. I was able to gain fascinating insights into what combination of instruments work well together and which ones do less so. When composing within the realm of computer software certain elements, such as balance, can appear very different compared to a live situation with real players. Also, what might sound too simply, almost boring, when heard in software might be a captivating moment when played by real musicians.
While I came out of the time of observation with a multitude of notes on techniques, articulations and other aspects of music that I wanted to keep in mind for future compositions, I also rediscovered my love for the sounds of certain instruments in their moments to shine; particularly the clarinet and tenor horn. In my composing I enjoy the extravagance of expression a full orchestra has but also the petite and delicate moments with tremolo strings in pianissimo creating a warm bed underneath a solo flute soaring above it. I am fascinated by the contrasts of dynamics and the power so many musicians hold in their instruments.
I am pleased that the relationship with Dominic and the WPO has grown and delevoped into this residency. I have been inspired by the rehearsals of my music we have had so far and am very thankful for the feedback and appreciation I have received from the orchestra. It is now for us to look forward to continuing to workshop music and together see new pieces of music born. I hope the orchestra enjoys this process as much as I do. Let’s together contribute something fresh to the cultural life of Worthing and beyond.
Kai Vollprecht Media 