The Benson Dances by Ben Wahlund

In the first dance, Discrete in Dance, non-parallel rhythms flare up in urgent waves, reminiscent of Delecluse or Zibkovic, and exhibit augmented versions of the original Cretan Dance, in a style like that of Gonzalo Rubalcaba. The second dance, Afreaux Trot, is loosely based on an Afro-Cuban 12/8 pattern, which replaces the original two-beat feel. Great care was taken employs the same neo-baroque invention form that the original held, but still provide a truncated version of Afro-Cuban rhythm (a “faux” version, if you will.) The third dance, Fawn, departs from the traditional Fandango but the popular stick on stick component is still intact. A rock feel is employed in its place.

Throughout this project, I have diligently tried to hold firm to respecting my predecessors (Benson) while using a fresh voice of today. I don’t consider this a redux, variation, or embellishment of the original Three Dances. The Benson Dances should stand as a work on its own, though even the youngest performer would most certainly recognize the similarities. – Ben Wahlund