Dirty Angel (2010)
(for flugel horn, accordion and orchestra)

The number 7 plays an important role in this piece. Rhythmically, harmonically, formally. Limping 7-beat rhythms are combined with and overlapped by 3 and 4-beat rhythms. The harmonic basis consists of layers of thirds (with 3 semitones equalling a minor third and 4 semitones equalling a major third) taken to the extreme by quoting a passage of thirds by Scarlatti. The piece assumes the form of a 4:3 ratio.

The two solo instruments – accordion and flugelhorn – symbolize the angel, who makes several false starts but ultimately manages to coordinate the flapping of his two wings and takes off. At the beginning, the orchestra takes on the role of the adversary and interrupts the angel´s hesitant attempts. A subsequent musical rapprochement follows, and the angel flies with the orchestra. In the end, after failing, the angel begins the attempt once again and flies away. Motto: “He who flutters, flies” (in the style of the Ernst Jandl quote: “He who limps, walks”.)