Fournier-Extrait de Saturne-M

Extrait de saturne by Marie-Helene Fournier is a short piece (about 5'20") that develops the idea of musical density, hence the title, which early pharmacists used to describe "extract of lead". This notion of density evolves with the aid of instrumental virtuosity used in two complementary ways. First, it exploits a very flexible musical phrase. Second, it takes up the challenge of flight enthusiasm and energy aroused by virtuosity making it into a structural element of the work in its own right. This piece marks the end of the composer's first phase (along with Oxydes) of Fournier's computer assisted instrumental composition. This two mallet solo can be played on a 4 octave marimba.