
The Mirror
for two percussionists
"The Mirror" is a work that explores the complexity of the human double personality through the language of percussion. Composed in 2011 for two percussionists, this piece is a sonic journey that reflects the tension and harmony between our outer image and our inner essence.
Instrumentation:
Individual Instruments: low tom-tom, high tom-tom, snare drum, bongos, cowbell, 4 woodblocks, tam-tam
Shared Intruments: Gran Cassa, cymbals: splash, crash & sizzle
Duration:
15:00 min.
"The Mirror" is a composition inspired by the work of renowned percussionist Nebojša Jovan Živković.
Synopsis
Through the interaction between the two percussionists, 'The Mirror" presents a musical narrative that oscillates between duality and unity, confusion and clarity. The work is structured into three distinct sections, inviting the listener to reflect on the nature of identity and authenticity, and to consider the possibility of reconciling our dual selves and living a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Allegro poco moderato: Imagine a mirror that reflects our outer image, but also has the ability to reveal our inner self. To the steady pulse of a single heartbeat, we see two distinct individuals wandering through a common ostinato: one that presents itself to the outside world and another that hides within our inner depths.
Rubato: The person we present to the outside world is the one we've constructed throughout our lives. It's the person we've learned to be, shaped by the expectations of others and social norms. This person is like a mask we wear, a facade that allows us to interact with the world in a safe and predictable way. But behind this mask, there's another person hiding within us. This person is our true essence, our soul. It's the person who feels, thinks, dreams, and loves. This person is authentic, genuine, and unique.
Vivace: The mirror reveals that these two personas are not always in harmony.
Divisi: At times, the person we present to the outside world may be at odds with our true essence. This can give rise to feelings of confusion, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, to the point where we may lose control and become embroiled in an internal battle.
Unisono: But the mirror also shows us that we can reconcile these two personas.
We can learn to accept and love our true essence, and present it to the world in an authentic way.
We can learn to live a more authentic, genuine, and fulfilling life.