Rūta Vitkauskaitė

Edge of Time (four part version, 2008)

Duration:

12′

Instrumentation:

from 4 to unlimited number of instruments (high, mid, low)

Programme Note

Edge of Time (2018) is an open score created especially for the CoMA ensemble. I joined the ensemble in 2017, and through playing together, we slowly developed this composition. The score itself is a journey – it has conventionally notated sections, as well as semi-graphic sections, and even a piece inside of the piece where you will hear every performer playing their individual melodies simultaneously. The piece is an abstract journey through different time phases – some active and engaging, some meditative and repetitive, and some slowing down almost to a stop – as if reaching the edge of time.

The piece was commissioned for CoMA’s 30th anniversary and premiered at King’s Place in London by the CoMA London ensemble led by Gregory Rose and the CoMA Singers led by Janet Oates. It was performed by a large ensemble/orchestra and singers.

After the premiere, I arranged other versions of the piece, including a four-part open score version (full duration) and a shortened eight-part and percussion version for the CoMA Glasgow ensemble. I also created a trio version (clarinet, violoncello, and piano) for Trio Sonorite.