An experimental composition by Mihalis Vanezis where a story narrative is read out as musical instructions to musicians to the count of a stop watch. The performers have to improvise in real time responding to the emotions and events of the story.
Performed by Chris Tombling (Violin), Sue Dench (Viola), Leo Payne (Violin) and Audrey Riley (Cello)
Story A - Mihalis Vanezis
0 - 0.30 A protagonist is strolling about, content and comfortable. They feel a soft breeze.
0.30 - 1.00 There is a change of air pressure and the sky turns dark. Clouds loom and the protagonist acknowledges the changes and becomes anxious.
1.00 There is a loud explosion of thunder which frightens the anxious protagonist.
1.00 - 1.30 The protagonist runs at full speed, losing breath as they struggle to maintain their pace.
1.30 - 1.45 The protagonist suddenly trips and badly injures themselves. They are left confused. Feeling paralysed by excruciating pain, their body goes into shock.
1.45 - 2.00 As the protagonist regains clearer thought they realise what has happened, but they are determined to keep going.
2.00 - 2.15 Meanwhile an unidentified antagonist lurks nearby.
2.15 - 2.20 The protagonist becomes aware of the danger and begins panicking, struggling to move.
2.20 - 2.40 The protagonist cannot escape with their injuries and so attempts to fight for their life. A struggle ensues
2.40 - 2.50 The protagonist is gradually overcome by the antagonist.
2.50 - 3.00 The protagonist dies.
