Concerto Grosso [score]

Composed in 2023, the Concerto Grosso for clarinet, bassoon or bass clarinet, harp, and string orchestra (or string quintet) is structured in three movements. As the title suggests, the work features a dynamic interplay between the three soloists and the ensemble, with frequent passages in which individual string players emerge to engage in dialogue with the principal soloists.

The first movement opens with a string ostinato, over which the clarinet and bassoon (or bass clarinet) introduce a lyrical and expressive melody, supported by flowing semiquaver arpeggios in the harp. Abrupt modulations propel the music into a contrasting, highly rhythmic section. Cast in ABA′ form, the final part of the movement (A′) combines and superimposes material from both A and B, building towards an energetic conclusion.

The second movement begins with a meditative melodic motif stated by the harp. This theme is taken up and developed by the soloists and strings, gradually intensifying towards a dramatic central passage built on a six-part canon. The initial material then returns, with the harp motif serving as a foundation for renewed variation and lyrical development.

The final movement begins with three contrasting elements: a rhythmic ostinato, a melodic theme, and a semiquaver motif. These materials are initially presented separately, then combined and layered to create a richly textured interplay. A sudden shift introduces a polymodal middle section, rhythmically intricate and marked by frequent changes of metre. A harp cadenza provides a moment of luminous stillness before the return of the opening material, now combined and intensified, rushing towards a brilliant and virtuosic finale.

The first recording was made by Jean‑Marc Fessard (clarinet), Mavroudes Troullos (bassoon), Rachel Talitman (harp), and the Mendelssohn Ensemble, released by Harp&Co in 2024.