Writing a waltz inspired by the slow movement of jellyfish
I usually compose music inspired by places and people, but this time the starting point was movement.
While working on my string quintet album Faces & Places, I found myself fascinated by the way jellyfish move: slow, weightless and almost hypnotic. I wondered whether that feeling could be translated into a waltz without making it sound like a traditional dance.
The result is "Jellyfish Waltz" (Out July 10th), a short piece built around lyrical melodies and evolving harmonies rather than dramatic contrasts. My goal was to create the impression of floating underwater, with the different string voices moving independently but remaining connected.
I'm releasing the album one piece at a time on Bandcamp instead of all at once. It's been an interesting way to let each composition breathe before becoming part of the complete work.
If you're interested in contemporary chamber music or string writing, I'd genuinely enjoy hearing what this idea suggests to you.
Follow the album’s progress at: https://pilpilmusic.com/faces-and-places/
