Composition Notes from David Winkler

It is a pleasure to be named ACCO’s first composer in residence. And also very satisfying to provide some notes on writing for orchestra and my LYRIC PRELUDES.

I have composed numerous works for orchestra and large ensembles including: 5 symphonies, numerous overtures, 15 violin concertos, 2 piano concertos, a double concerto for Cello, Piano and Orchestra, several operas, 2 ballets - all utilizing an orchestra of one size or another.  The orchestra is a medium with numerous “levels”  - texture, color, volume, and more. These features allow for thematic development, contrasts in form, and stylistic growth. And also, composing for large groups is a direct way to compare new work, contemporary work, to older work and the standard repertoire. Works that have withstood the test of time, and in some cases that have endured for over 300 years. This allows us to ask the musical question: “where do we stand today” vis a vis the standard repertoire and “where are we going” in terms of style and content.

My LYRIC PRELUDES, being performed on October 15,  is a work commissioned by the Swiss/Italian Conservatory in Lugano, SW in 2016. It is scored for string orchestra featuring 1st and 2nd violins, violas, celli and basses. The work has received numerous performances in Europe but tonight it receives its American premiere. The string orchestra ensemble, invented during the Baroque period, covers almost the entire range as does a symphony orchestra - only without the winds, brass and percussion. Still, there are excellent color contrasts within the string group, violins being brighter, violas darker , cell and double basses darker yet. And in terms of range (highest to lowest) there is ample “space” for melodic range, counterpoint amongst differing themes, and full scale contrasts in volume and form.

I look forward to this evening’s concert and to hearing this wonderful ensemble and its amazing conductor present a fascinating variety of works.  DW