ClarinetFest 2024: Sarah Watts

As part of ClarinetFest 2024, performer Sarah Watts presents two new works - 'Counterweight' by Ailís Ní Ríain and 'Island Serenade' by Anderinna Gooch.

Ailís writes: 

A counterweight is a weight that balances another weight. Here it serves as a metaphor to recognise the universal need for balance and to acknowledge the challenging impacts of exclusion, inequality and discrimination on the individual.

The piece explores alienation, the isolation of being excluded and the self-doubt this can provoke. The opening section is decidedly fragile; cold, harsh, metallic from there the piece cycles through a series of emotional states. At times reflective or emphatic; resolved or insistent.

The accompanying audio situates itself in a landscape of cymbals, synths and altered piano; at times caressing, others brutal in its annihilation.

The contrabass itself representing the individual suspended between layers of frustration, resignation, provocation and ultimately leading to a place of bruised resolve and firm conviction to simply, go on. 

'Island Serenade' is an evocative electroacoustic composition crafted from the rich, resonant sounds of the contrabass clarinet. This piece was inspired by composer Anderinna Gooch's deep connection to her native County Donegal and its rugged coastline. Imagining a fictional island off the coast of Donegal, Anderinna sought to capture the sense of mystery and enchantment that such a place evokes.

Anderinna Gooch was awarded the CMC's BRIGID Residency in 2024.

Programme

Ailís Ní Ríain - 'Counterweight', for contrabass clarinet, sound and film [World Premiere]*

Anderinna Gooch - 'Island Serenade' for contrabass clarinet and fixed media. 

*Commissioned by Sarah Watts in partnership with the University of Sheffield and generously funded by the Higher Education Innovation Fund.

Tickets

This performance takes palce as part of the international ClarinetFest conference. For details on registration visit: https://clarinet.org/clarinetfest-2024/