Sikinnis II
For flute, viola and harp
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The second in a series of works exploring the ‘sikinnis’, this work was written to celebrate the completion of my cousin Claire Johnson’s PhD. The opening movement is a vigorous dance work that dissolves into an abstract, rambling movement that breaks down the key musical material into fractured moments. The work then culminates in a short and pretty dance based on the key melodic material from Claire’s highschool song.
A sikinnis is a vigorous dance performed during a satyr play in ancient Greece theatre. These dances are strongly associated with the half-faun character of satyr’s and generally explore hyper-masculine, male fantasy.
In my works titled “Sikinnis” I am generally exploring the idea of dance, joy and sexuality. In these pieces I generally contrast two musical ideas with different aural outcomes, and to me, emotional experiences. In this third Sikinnis I’m most interested in the muddy, almost overly resonant textures, as at the beginning of the piece. To me there is a fascinating melancholy in the sustained sounds available with use of the piano pedal.
Generally these moments arise from the lower register of the piano to then focus on more hyperactive rhythms.
This is contrasted with higher register material which is less rhythmically rapid and more focused on melody, line and a sense of sparkly-ness.
There is a third element in block chords, which help form a basis for the ongoing resonance of the piece.
Commissioned by Judy and Peter Johnson in dedication for Claire Johnson’s completion of her P.H.D.
Premiered by Petrichore