Firecracker

Description

In the 1940's and 50's, the calling card of every Las Vegas casino, hotel, and restaurant on the "strip" was a colorful souvenir matchbook: an icon of a Las Vegas long vanished, when the "Rat Pack" and neon signs ruled. These matchbooks could be used to light a candle, a cigarette, or perhaps a fiery composition for oboe and small chamber ensemble. The music of Firecracker evokes the vintage exotic decor of the Aladdin, the Sahara, and the Desert Inn. The oboe spins out a virtuosic musical motive in the perpetual motion of a roulette wheel. The small chamber ensemble provides a rhythmic, colorful counterpoint, like flickering and flashing neon signs. The musical fireworks are briefly interrupted by a tango floorshow. After a return to the fireworks, the oboe's firecracker fuse burns out into the Las Vegas night. (1991) Solo oboe and small chamber ensemble (flute/piccolo, bass clarinet, violin, cello, piano and percussion)Firecracker is a virtuosic piece spun off from a motive inspired by the diabolically difficult etudes of Antonio Pasculli (1842-1924), perhaps the greatest virtuoso of his day. The musical fireworks are briefly interrupted by a playful tango interlude. Duration - ca. 13:00