Subtilesa (Subtlety)

Subtlety for harp was written during the autumn of 1986, by petition of the harpist Margarida Arnal, to be premiered during the Harp International Convention in Israel in 1987. Despite being a rather spectacular and virtuoso piece, I chose to call it Subtlety to honour the delicate nature of the instrument.

After a majestic introduction, a fluid Allegro leads to a somewhat rapid semi quaver rhythm, which covers all the registers of the instrument. The slow central part is where the harp is treated more delicately, using an abundance of harmonics and diaphonic textures.

The reexposition of the Allegro is totally modified and the piece culminates with the harmonies of the majestic introduction filled with brilliant arpeggios and glissandi.

AUDIO