NEW MUSIC TUESDAY | Composer Lyell Cresswell – ‘Chatoyance’ For Solo Violin [PREMIERE]

23-year-old Australian violinist Harry Ward performing New Zealand composer Lyell Cresswell's new-premiered 'Chatoyance' for Solo Violin

23-year-old Australian violinist Harry Ward performing New Zealand composer Lyell Cresswell's new-premiered Chatoyance for Solo Violin.

Commissioned by the 2019 Michael Hill International Violin Competition, the 6 and 1/2 minute solo violin work was inspired by the optical reflectance effect found in certain gemstones - in honour of the competition's founder, jeweler and entrepreneur Sir Michael Hill.

“From the beginning I had it in mind to find an appropriate musical title connected with jewelry ... this seemed the obvious starting point in the light of the competition ..." Lyell has told The Violin Channel.

“I really enjoy writing for unaccompanied instruments and particularly string instruments - as the theatrical aspect appeals to me ... to see a player standing alone in front of an audience grappling with the music can be riveting ..." he has said.

"With a solo performance there is nothing to fall back on ... no other instrumental colours, no other players to take over and no support from other instruments - the contrast has to be found within the limits of the instrument."

Recorded live on the 31st May, 2019 - at the Queenstown Memorial Hall, in Queenstown, New Zealand.

HARRY WARD | LYELL CRESSWELL | 'CHATOYANCE' FOR SOLO VIOLIN | 2019 MICHAEL HILL INTERNATIONAL VIOLIN COMPETITION