upon the poem "Es wird später" by Karl Lubomirski
The metaphor of approach and withdrawal unfolds on multiple levels. At the beginning, the syllables of the phrase "It's getting late"—both in German and French —are fragmented and rapidly interwoven between the two languages. Gradually, the text becomes more structured, with parts coming together. However, just before the full text emerges, we find ourselves already moving away again.
The composition is structured in three main sections, each further divided into three subsections. Within these sections, evolving relationships between speed, meter, and event density shape the musical flow. Nine chords, each built from five notes, serve as the foundation for nine short melodies. These melodies undergo transformations in relation to the rhythmic structures, altering their form as the piece progresses.
At its core, this work is a reflection on the fragility of every moment.
concert recording with
Colette Hochain - mezzo-soprano
Sophie Dardeau - flute
Emmanuel Haratyk - viola
Virginie Tarrete - harp
Daniel Kawka - conductor
Poem by Karl Lubomirski
ES WIRD SPÄTER
Es wird später
Vögel ziehn nach Norden
wieder ohne mich
Am Wegrand kniet die erste Blume über grauer Krume
stehn schon Lerchen
Tage tragen ihren Lorbeer
in die leichten Flüsse
Über Tempelstufen sonnenschwerer Meere schreitet Blütenstaub ins Leere
Es wird später
IL SE FAIT PLUS TARD
Il se fait plus tard
Des oiseaux vont vers le nord
sans moi de nouveau
Au bord du chemin la première fleur s'agenouille
au-dessus de la croûte grise
des alouettes déjà
Les jours portent leur laurier
dans les rivières légères
Sur les marches du temple de mers lourdes de soleil
s'avance vers le ciel le pollen
Il se fait plus tard
(translation: Jacques Legrand)