Dragonfly

This piece was originally written for piano and flute, circa 1990. It has since been adapted a number of times for differing instrumentation. It was recast in 2001 for alto flute and harp, and in 2016, it was rewritten once more for trio of flute, viola and harp. Following the publication of the version for trio, it became clear that with some careful consideration, Dragonfly could be reworked for clarinet, bass clarinet and piano. By way of a fundamental precept, each instrument was to retain a vital and fully developed role, despite the change in instrumentation. Each part needed to be independent, substantial, and meaningful enough to engage the players fully. The piece opens with a mysterious, ponderous passage intended to set the scene of the enigmatic world of Odonata. The piano introduces the frenetic movement characteristic of a restless dragonfly. The trio's material is not intended to onomatopoeically imitate the insect's private language but instead, figurative material is employed to suggest a certain behavioural pattern. Although the instruments tend to work together, the fluttery flight and erratic movement are idiomatic to the clarinet, as it rarely settles, and when it does; not for long.