Aotearoa - Cloud
For orchestra: 3[1.2.p] 2 3[1.2.bcl] 3[1.2.cbsn] — 4 2 3 1 — tmp+3 — harp — pno — str
Duration: [8’]
Inspired by ‘Aotearoa – Cloud’ painting by Gretchen Albrecht. Commissioned by Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, 2016 Composer Workshops.
Gretchen Albrecht, Aotearoa - Cloud, 2002 - Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, gift of the Patrons of the Auckland Art Gallery, 2002
Progamme Note
Aotearoa is the Māori name for New Zealand and translates to ‘land of the long white cloud’. Linda was inspired by the painting of the same name by Gretchen Albrecht, as part of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s Gallery of Sound concert. The image presented many creative possibilities, and Linda sought to depict the painting’s movement, curved lines, shape and texture. A collaboration with Albrecht during the composition process revealed some additional details: the significance of two thin white lines at the bottom of the painting, described as the anchors of the work; the landmass that the great cloud on the canvas is sitting above. The work includes use of Taonga Pūoro or traditional musical instruments of the Māori people - namely a Purerehua, similar to a Bull Roarer. It is juxtaposed with a wind machine to create an airy texture reminiscent of the painting.