Compound Autonomy by Jim Casella

Compound Autonomy builds its character from a variety of independent patterns. Written in the meter of 7/8, a primary ostinato comprised of two pitches repeated in a pattern of 4+3 begins the piece. This ostinato permeates the entire work as overlapping and intermingling lines get introduced little by little. At times, a hi-hat rhythm gives the illusion of 4/4 time…but it is only an illusion. Opposing (or autonomous) elements break the barrier of the typical bar-line as they blend (or compound) together, occasionally landing on a common downbeat but always providing a churning and weaving fabric upon which the main melodic material can be framed.

Written for a larger ensemble (15 players, or 17 if marimba parts can be doubled), groove, balance, and strong individual and ensemble timing skills are essential. Mathematic, complex, and mysteriously beautiful, Compound Autonomy is sure to take your audiences to new sonic landscapes.

This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes a CD-Rom containing an audio recording and all individual parts available for printing. Also included in each package is an “abridged” version (approx. 4’30”) for programming situations where the original is too long in duration.