Improvisation IV (Fielding Sixes)



Category: Musical composition
Dated: 1982
Instrumentation: For 3 cassette players using machines equipped with a device designed by John Fulleman which allows one to change the playback speed from seven o'clock (slow) to twelve o'clock (normal) to five o'clock (fast)
Duration: indeterminate
Premiere and performer(s): New York City, June 30, 1982
Dedicated to: ---
Choreography: Merce Cunningham: Fielding Sixes (1980)
Published: Edition Peters 66954 © 1983 by Henmar Press.
Manuscript:


The published score consists of 1 page of written instructions. For Fielding Sixes there are 3 sets of twelve identical cassettes. All of them contain traditional Irish music, played by Matt Molloy on flute and Paddy Glackin on fiddle. Other material than Irish traditional music may be used. If performed as a work independent of the dance, the performers have to agree on a timelength. During the performance, one change of playback speed (not more than 3 hours, see 'instrumentation') is allowed. Between 2 pieces (or 2 playings of the same piece) there should be a silence of between 15 seconds and 3 minutes.

Sources: Published score; Richard Kostelanetz: John Cage writer - Previously uncollected pieces; Paul van Emmerik: Thema met Variaties; David Revill: The Roaring Silence; Paul Sacher Stiftung