String Theory 19: Mostly Cello

Pieces requiring retuning or scordatura have a modest foothold in the literature. It is very unusual to encounter works where strings are adjusted while playing, but several specimens fill out Ballon’s bold recital.

Chamber ramble with accordion, guitars and percussion

Breath and shape are crucial to these pieces’ projection and the results entrance. There are times when duo or trio fuses together so successfully it’s hard to tell whether the high note is a trombone, the low note a clarinet, or the reedy sound an accordion.