Programme note

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The influence of Chinese, Japanese, Brazilian, and Malian rhythms is central to this work for three percussionists. Set in six interlinked movements, the work combines interpretations of ancient rhythmic patterns with aggressive bursts of energy and extended playing techniques.

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Un-pitched South American percussion instruments and Chinese drums interplay with western, pitched percussion as the work moves through contrasting energetic rhythmic sections into eerie and suspenseful passages.

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Complex arrays of cross-rhythms give way to almost motionless passages of uneasiness. The uneasiness is extended by a shifting tonal centre.

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The title of the piece is taken from the final line of the haiku "Year's End," by the Japanese poet  松尾芭蕉 Matsuo Bashō (1644-1694).

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Year’s end, all
corners of this
floating world, swept.

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