Instrumentation: flute/piccolo, Bb clarinet/bass clarinet, percussion, violin, cello, piano
Duration: 9 minutes
Commissioned by Kupka’s Piano
Programme Note
The Sleep of Reason takes its title from Goya’s famous etching The sleep of reason produces monsters. This belongs to a series of 80 satirical etchings and aquatints, Los Caprichos, which comment on and condemn many facets of Goya’s 18th century Spain, including the aristocracy, politicians, religion and the clergy, superstition, and morality. Goya’s etching is as relevant to today’s society as it was to his; illustrating that where ignorance outweighs reason, and where sense fails, monsters such as fear, intolerance, and superstition emerge taking on forms in politics and religion. In my work this took the form of a pacified middle section – all of a sudden energy ceases and the momentum completely dissipates. An uncomfortable state of lull takes over, evoking a sheltered and fabricated existence devoid of reality and reason. Rumbles and movement begin to interfere more and more until the artificial comfort of the piece breaks down and reason (as brutal and difficult as it is presented here) resumes.
Performance History
19 Apr 2016: Judith Wright Centre, Brisbane Qld, Australia – Kupka’s Piano
Score Availability:
A3 full score (no individual parts), contact me
Recording:
Available on Kupka’s Piano debut CD Braneworlds (digital download available below, for physical copies contact Kupka’s Piano or myself)
Jakob Bragg 