Echoes of Thought

for narrator and solo instrument

by Alessandro MacKinnon-Botti

    1. The narrator delivers quotes in a contemplative tone, each quote corresponding to a specific note (1 to 9) in a random order, decided before the performance using a random-number generator.
    2. The solo instrument plays solely in a minor mode of the player’s choice, avoiding major modes.
    3. The player is allowed to improvise scales and melodies based on the note assigned to the quote.
    4. Quote 4, being the focal point of the piece, must be emphasised with perhaps more sustained and expressive musical playing.
    5. The music should reflect the introspective nature of the quotes, creating a contemplative ambiance – ensuring a seamless integration of spoken word and musical elements.
    6. The narrator and the player should consider dynamic contrasts and pauses to enhance the overall emotional impact of the piece.
    7. There should be a rehearsal for a balanced and synchronised performance, but don’t think too much in a complicated manner about details – improvisation is key to the live performance.

    This performance art piece aims to engage the audience with a thoughtful exploration of diverse opinions, with the narrator and solo instrument weaving together a combination of both introspection and emotion.

    Editor’s note:
Alessandro MacKinnon-Botti kindly suggests
that recorded performances of this piece be sent
in to him by email at orie4508 [at] ox.ac.uk
or through this QR code:

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    The Poor Print

    Established in 2013, The Poor Print is the student-run newspaper of Oriel College, Oxford. New issues are published fortnightly during term, featuring creative contributions by members of the JCR, MCR, SCR and staff.

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