The presentation

Concerto for Cello and Orchestra

Part I: 1. Granite 2. Liquid 3. Paradisiacal 4. Cadence 5. Orgiastic

Part II:

My concerto opens with an austere, lunar-like sound reminiscent of minerals and granite; intense harmonies of quartz and stones as they collide head on. This theme serves as a support for the whole of the first movement. After the somewhat theatrical arrival of the soloist, a second, more melodic theme appears. The whole of the first movement expresses a growing tension a progressively accelerating sound that comes to a head in the second movement, where minerals are taken over by liquids, and a dialogue is exchanged between the two main themes; one, highly rhythmical, and the other, more vocal. The orchestra envelops the piece in an aquatic scherzo, becoming increasingly dramatic as the movement moves on. After a pause, the second part begins with the continuous flow of the third, fourth and fifth movements. The third is a calm meditation in total contrast with the first part - a paradisiacal hesperidian garden which alternates the soloists long melody with flutes and xylophones representing birds and insects. In the middle, a strange pizzicato appears, underlined by the eerie whirring of a glass harmonica. The fourth movement gives pride of place to the soloist, bringing together different elements of the score, ending in the fifth movement - a wild, rhythmical and joyful dance. This piece is dedicated to Jrme Pernoo.

Guillaume Connesson