Inspired by Luciano Berio’s Sequenza II, this solo harp work blends Arab maqam inflections with virtuosic motion and shimmering glissandi, unfolding as a lyrical journey that ultimately circles back to its opening.
Premiered by: Rosie Murphy (harp)
Venue: Royal Conservatoire The Hague, Netherlands
Tasalsul II draws inspiration from Luciano Berio’s Sequenza II for solo harp, initially echoing its opening before evolving into a melodic, sorrowful lullaby with microtonal nuances from the Arab maqamat. The harp shifts into a perpetual motion, showcasing pyrotechnic plucking across its range, punctuated by moments of ululation produced by rapid pedal changes. Climaxing with arpeggiated, tertian-based harmonies adorned with pedal glissandi, the piece concludes by retracing its opening, evoking a journey back home.
