Seven Signals

Signals and signs beyond the spoken language are the theme of the work commissioned by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and dedicated to the choreographer Jiří Kylián. In seven movements, the Australian composer Brett Dean explores the musical and poetic potential of the coded communication channels that surround us ubiquitously, but all too often are not perceived as language. Rhythm represents the link between physical information channels and the sound sceneries derived from them. Moving themes and symbols, including Morse signals from the sinking ‘Titanic’, are Dean's source of inspiration. Using a variety of means, references to Robert Schumann as well as extended playing techniques, the music develops a physically perceptible power and has a dance-like quality.