Blur by Robert Sanderl

I composed Blur after seeing a fantastic video by the Israeli percussion duo PercaDu, performing a work called Octabones. I was struck by the dense texture that was created using only two 5-octave marimbas, and the unique interaction of the two voices. Blur is based on interlocking chordal and melodic ideas that are drawn from extended harmonies throughout. The A section that returns twice to create a quasi rondo form is the most dense relying on a vertical method of construction, while the two sections that exist in between are more linear in nature. The title reflects my intent to create a work where the two performers “blur” together to create a dense web of counterpoint where the listener is not particularly drawn to either voice. This composition is dedicated to Jim Petercsak.
– RS