The Outer Reaches (2019)
BY Dan Drizlikh
Created in software programs FL Studio with Kontakt, this work is one that originated from a dream I had. My inspiration was the tranquility of the depths of space, and the video version is set to orbital footage of earth courtesy of NASA. With orchestral and synth instruments, it takes on a serene yet tense atmosphere as it goes along.
Despair (2019)
BY Dan Drizlikh
Despair is a solo piano work for piano strings that stays away from the traditional use of the keyboard in favor of incorporating the strings inside the piano. Within the work, an image of depression and discomfort is formed as it progresses gradually. Its gestures help express the grim setting of the piece further. This work reflects my state of mind while diving into a project to compose with symbols and extended techniques, and while trying new techniques for the piano, I felt frustration and discomfort, emotions that became part of this work. For the duration of the piece, Despair’s score consists of ten panels having graphic notation with various hand strokes and attacks. As none of the attacks and strokes are to be played in specific pitch orders, every performance of the piece will differ each time you listen to it. While most of these techniques are played in repetition, two techniques sometimes get mixed in together. Most of the piece has indistinguishable pitch, especially on the lowest strings, except when they are plucked or tapped.
Understanding (2019)
BY Dan Drizlikh
A string quintet that evokes a sense of understanding. The harmony has an image of one realizing their goal on a path in which they are going and the solution to a persistent problem. Its harmonic sound also has a sense of concentrating on the main path in order to reach a goal while finding a workaround on the way.