hazy dimensions of numbness (2025)

Programme Note

vivid forms of imagery emerge [1 of 3]

hazy dimensions of numbness [2 of 3]

fullness as a strengthening property [3 of 3]

Dedicated to Thomas Mellan

These three organ compositions stand as independent works, each with its own distinct character and expressive voice. Yet, through the shared threads of self-borrowed and transformed musical materials, they also combine to form a cohesive, substantial single work when presented in their numbered sequence: [1 of 3], [2 of 3], and [3 of 3]. This large-scale piece is titled A Natural Unity.

The music is inspired by a deeply personal engagement with the organ, from fairground to cathedral, drawing on distortions, memories, fantasies and inventions shaped by my experiences as a listener of organ music. Additionally, it reflects moments of direct interaction with the instrument—brief, exploratory encounters with the manuals and pedals of small church organs. These attempts to forge a physical connection with the organ’s unique agency have inevitably left their mark, shaping the music’s character through a lens that is both idiosyncratic, reverent, and rhythmically and polyphonically demanding.

Circa 17 minutes duration.

About Score to Audio Video

I’m posting score to audio videos of all my organ pieces as I publish them. Although lacking human warmth, colouristic diversity and depth, the MIDI organ sound I have at my disposal (pipe organ, one colour, no doubling) are kinder to the composer (and instrument) than many other MIDI sounds. I believe that listening to one of these videos does give a fair idea of the potential for the piece if given the full treatment by a consummate artist employing the idiosyncrasies and range of their instrument, and may provoke a deeper exploration of the music.

Performance Note

Overview and Intentions:

These compositions explore layered timbres and dynamic contrasts, drawing inspiration from my background in painting to create vivid and subtle colourations. The score is crafted to challenge the organist through the intricate interplay of voices and textures, transitioning between sparse doublings and expansive octave ranges. I aim to evoke a sonic landscape that evolves through distinct timbral shifts and expressive dynamics, leveraging the organ’s rich palette.

Notation and Structure:

Each staff represents a distinct timbral colour, reflecting layered sounds. Chords notated on a single staff should produce a unified timbre, while chords spanning multiple staves blend contrasting colours to create a cohesive texture.

The notation prioritises clarity in sound layering. Interpret the alignment of voices to enhance the interplay of chords and textures in your performance.

Registration:
Suggested registrations are provided as a starting point, reflecting my initial vision for tonal relationships. These are not prescriptive; I encourage you to select registrations that realise varied and intense colourations, tailoring them to your organ and interpretive approach.

I am interested in exploring just intonation for certain voices to introduce subtle pitch deviations from equal temperament, creating microtonal colouristic effects. Experiment with these possibilities where feasible, adapting to the instrument’s capabilities. If tremulants are used, their effect should be subtle, delivering gentle oscillations of sound rather than aggressive vibrato.

Pedal Range:

This piece is designed for a pedal range of C-G.

Dynamics and Swell:

Dynamics are notated to guide musical expression and should be interpreted to maximise impact. Use the swell pedal where indicated to shape dynamic transitions, ensuring both technical feasibility and musical coherence.

Adjust dynamics as needed to suit the organ’s response and performance context, enhancing the intended contrasts.

Performance and Collaboration:

The final sound of this piece emerges from the collaboration between the composition and your interpretive choices. Your approach to timbre, dynamics, and pitch will shape its character, and I encourage you to annotate your score to reflect your rendition. I hope this work inspires and challenges you, as it did me in its creation.