For voices and drum(s)

In 1992 I was one of several Australian composers invited by Richard Letts, then Director of the Australian Music Centre, to produce – at hair-raisingly short notice – a one page choral work whose score should be suitable for framing and presentation to a High Achiever in the propagation of Australian music. The presentation was to be made at a ceremony in Sydney which would include a performance of the work.

My High Achiever was the Chrissie Parrott Dance Collective of Perth, and in composing this cyclical maninya (dance/chant) I was aware of its choreographic potential. The Latin text, which translates as “May the grace of the Holy Spirit be with you” seemed appropriate to an auspicious occassion which became progressively more euphoric on account of the abundant free wine. Elliott Gyger directed The Song Company in this first performance of Dance Mantras, and he also played the drum.

Dance Mantras is designed to be flexible and imaginative interpretations of the score are encouraged. The original ensemble of 6 solo voices (SSATBB) may be augmented by simply doubling, or massively swollen, as in the 1996 performances in the Sydney Opera House by an antiphonally divided chorus of 700 children conducted by Simon Kenway. One can imagine a protracted version in a candle-lit church or cathedral producing a hypnotic effect. Or a wedding procession, or a dance: the manifold possibilities await further exploration.

 

Recordings:

On the CD Raft Song at Sunrise
Sydney Chamber Choir, directed by Nicholas Routley
View this CD on iTunes.

 

Listen:

Score:

Available through the Australian Music Centre

View a sample of this score.

 

Additional information:

This piece is also available as part of the work Mantras and Alleluyas for voices & percussion.