Abhisheka

John Psathas: Abhisheka (Chamber Strings)
String Quartet (Optional Artificial Reverb)

This work is published for performance and study. The performance set (choose Parts Only) includes four saddle-stitched part booklets. The full score can be purchased individually for study or reference (choose Score only) and is not required for performance. Wherever possible, all four instruments should be close-miked for performance, not to increase the volume of the ensemble, but to enable the addition of artificial reverb. (c.4 seconds).

About the work:

The composer writes: 'Drafted immediately after reading a book by the Buddhist guru Chögyam Trungpa, Abhisheka was my first-ever attempt at writing music with space in it. Until this piece, practically everything I had written was ultra-caffeinated, fast, full of notes, and murder on performers. But having been (albeit temporarily) inspired by the great truths and peace in Trungpa's writing, I found myself navigating slower passages of musical time, as well as exploring the microcosm of inner space between the even intervals of our chromatic tuning system.'

Selected review of the work:

'This is a mostly slow and reflective piece, beautiful as well as profound. Extensive use of quarter-tones gives it an unusual sound... Against a background of hushed chords, the violins and cello each have an extended solo passage. After a more energetic and unexpectedly intense climax, the viola has its turn. Psathas shows a sure hand in the marriage of material to form and the careful pacing of the work.'

Oliver Hancock, Music in New Zealand, Summer 1998-1999

Visit the Publisher's website for more information about the work and publication.