‘Pastorale [pastoral]. A literary, dramatic or musical genre that depicts the characters and scenes of rural life or is expressive of its atmosphere.’
(New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians)
This piece aims to critique and subvert the genre by contrasting lyricism with a more violently assertive element.
It exists in a variety of versions and instrumental arrangements, of which this version was the first performed, at Joseph Parry Hall, Aberystwyth University (Musicfest), 30 July 1999. With thanks to John Metcalf for advice in preparing this version.
A version for clarinet, violin, cello and piano is available from Composers Edition: ce-bi1p2 (score)
A version for clarinet in Bb, cello and percussion (one player) is also available from Composers Edition: ce-bi1p6 (score & parts)