About the Work

Program note courtesy of the composer:

Skein Eponym for bass clarinet and piano is a work that brings together elements of Lydian and Phrygian soundworlds. The combination of modal harmony with elements of 21st Century classical music comes together to form a piece of music that brings a host of sounds that are less common to the Western ear. From dark Phrygian passages to bright Lydian flourishes and the feeling of chromaticism brought about by the Bartokian inspired Lydian-Phyrgian polymode, Skein Eponym provides a challenging and fresh addition to the Bass Clarinet repertoire.

Extended-range instrument required. Piano Score: 10 pages, spiral bind; Bass Clarinet Part: 3 pages, booklet.

About the Composer

Oliver Pickup (1994) is a British composer from York, UK. Oliver studied at the University of York specialising in Composition and studied with composers such as Martin Suckling, Roger Marsh, Thomas Simaku, John Stringer and Ambrose Field. Much of Oliver's work focuses on the use of performer placement and sound localisation as a primary factor in the compositional process for acoustic and electro-acoustic chamber ensembles.

Outside of the world of modern classical music, Oliver also enjoys working with modal harmony and incorporating this into more light music as a way to bring exciting flavours to people who may not have had any experience with this type of harmony. As a conductor, Oliver has premiered new works by composers such as Catherine Robson, Eilidh Pollard and Rose Hall, and acts as a freelance musical director.