Ebony

for solo clarinet (1988)

Duration: ca 10 minutes

Like the flute writing in Grey and White for solo flute, the music for the clarinet in Ebony is informed, particularly in its pacing, by the unique and ethereal sound of the music heard in the Japanese Noh drama.  Passages of very long, sustained notes, contrast with long periods of silence, and occasional passages of rapid activity.  There is also great contrast in the dynamics, from extreme softness to fortissimo.  All of this requires great control from the performer.