Episodes from ‘Hermann’

(2015) 5’

1(=picc.)1(=c.a.)1(=Eb.Cl+B.Cl)1(=C.Bsn.) 1.1.1.0. 1P Pno. Hp. 2Vln. Vla. Vc. Cb.

Programme Note

Episodes from Hermann is loosely based on two novels that I am yet to finish (if I ever do). Both of these books deal with the idea of ‘the double’ or ‘the doppelgänger’ and how finding your double can greatly change your life. Hermann is a character in one of these novels, who unreliably narrates us through his tale, which ends with a diary entry marked April 1.

The basic form of Episodes from Hermann centres around a concerto grosso, with a mobile like ensemble accompaniment playing an obscure ritornello; alternating and supporting the two solo violins, who mimic, chase and entice each other throughout the course of the piece.

This version of Hermann grew out of a smaller, ‘abridged’ version, which was performed in the summer of 2015 as part of the Britten Pears Contemporary Composition and Performance course, under the baton of Jonathan Berman. A second version was performed in the Aldeburgh Festival 2016 by the same ensemble, again, with Jonathan Berman.

Liam Mattison (London, May 2016)