Saariaho Structure

Question 1

When was ‘Petals for Cello Solo & Optional Electronics’ written?

Answer 1

1988

Question 2

Where does the musical material come from for ‘Petals’?

Answer 2

The music is taken from Saariaho’s earlier piece ‘Nymphea (Waterlily)’ for string quartet and electronics written in 1987.

Question 3

Which impressionist artist/painter inspired ‘Petals”

Answer 3

Claude Monet (1840-1926)

Question 4

How is the structure of ‘Petals’ unconventional?

Answer 4

She does not use typical systems such as having a narrative to the music/telling a story, or seemingly follow clear sections.

Question 5

How does Saariaho organise the structure of ‘Petals’?

Answer 5

It seems to be concerned with the tension between two types of material, and with the exploration of a myriad (variety) of timbres.

Question 6

What are the 2 types of material that Saariaho uses to create tension in the music?

Answer 6

Saariaho describes the two types of material as:
 ‘fragile coloristic passages’ (Type A)
 ‘more energetic events with clear rhythmic and melodic character’ (Type B).

Question 7

Describe the structure of ‘Petals’ using A-B.

Answer 7

The piece alternates between type A and Type B music. There are 7 sections altogether:

A-B-A-B-A-B-A

Question 8

How is the piece structured in terms of the score?

Answer 8

Each system should be seen as a unit of time, rather than bars.