Prismen

Prisms within the field of optics permit the reflection and refraction of light rays. In this work, Wolfgang Fortner creates light effects through brilliant tonal colouring, highly differentiated instrumentation and finely nuanced solo lines. Written for Paul Sacher, the work employs twelve-tone technique but also incorporates elements of steered improvisation which are characteristic of Fortner’s later works. In these passages the composer stipulates a certain number of pitches and allows the musicians to determine their rhythmic placement.