Robert Carl (1954-)
Splectra (2014)

Alison Bjorkedal

Splectra (2014) is an elegant, fetching, virtuosic harp solo embellished with subtle digital processing. Each of the work’s two movements/parts (one echoing the other in structure) gradually expands a simple rising motive, becoming harmonically richer by adding pitches related to its opening note’s (low C) harmonic series. The composer writes, “Digital processing of the acoustic tones emphasizes the harp’s upper frequencies, presenting a timbral analogue to the piece’s harmonic structure.” It is performed by Grammy-winning harpist Alison Bjorkedal, with digital processing that captures and sustains certain overtones via a Max software patch designed and realized collaboratively by Robert Carl and Matt Sargent. (16-minute CD single, in 4-panel wallet)