Exotic Dances for Clarinet and Marimba

Description

Composer Program Notes:

Exotic Dances for Clarinet and Marimba is an amalgamation of folk dances inspired by the composer’s travels and tutelage sessions — oftentimes, apprenticeship — with traditional bards and cultural custodians across the African continent. Movement I (“Zanzibar”) draws inspiration from absolution practices among the coastal communities of Tanzania; Movement II (“Bayaka Malagasy”) merges dance elements from Central Africa and isle nation of Madagascar; Movement III (“A Nubian Dance Meditation 3.0”), adapted from an earlier work by the composer, is demure and reflective, exploring ancient Abyssinian courtship dance traditions from northeastern Africa; while Movement IV (“Okoye Baganda”) bridges dance traditions from Nigeria and Uganda. Although each movement is independently conceived, together they take performers – often acting as surrogates for different cultural entities – and the audience on a sonic safari (or journey) across distant lands, offering a kaleidoscopic perspective on rhythm, song, and dance. —FredO., February, 2025.