Divergent Dances

Armand Russell writes: 'Divergent Dances is divided into six sections of which the odd numbered sections are rather slow and the evne numbered ones much faster. The three odd numbered sections are first a theme and then twovariations. The three even numbered sections are named as Fast Dance 1, 2 and 3. Each one is different but use very similar ways of creating their themes using steps and small skips, often in succession. The overall effect of theform is that of a small rondo (ABACAD). Each of the sections uses a different diatonic mode. These are, in order G Phrygian, E Aeolian, D Ionian, F Mixolydian, A Dorian and G Lydian. The sections alternate approachestointerpretation as well as tempos. The odd numbered sections and lyrical and more expressive and the odd numbered sections more rhythmic. Throughout, but especially in the odd numbered sections, there is a need for the player todecide whether to finger the music to achieve a darker effect, using cross strings in higher positions, or a brighter effect with more shifts which use lower positions when possible. This is the player's choice and may be playeddifferently in different sections or for each performance. The music does not use thumb position.' Divergent Dances was premiered by Nic Lum (double bass) and Gemma Beeson (piano) at Wells Cathedral School (Somerset, UK) on Sunday2 October 2011.