Within the spectacular interior of the Wonderland Spiegeltent, Chris Rainier co-presented with Melbourne Music Week 2013 presents an evening of music by the maverick American composer, theorist and instrument-builder Harry Partch [1901-1974]. Influencing the likes of Tom Waits, Frank Zappa and Steve Reich, Partch’s legacy continues to resonate with both artists and audiences.
'I Was A Bum Once Myself' focuses on Partch’s rarely-heard works for voice and adapted guitar. Composed during the early 1940’s, these pieces were inspired by his years as a hobo, riding the rails during the Depression. Hitchhiker’s inscriptions, snatches of inebriated dialogue, and letters from ex-convicts are all brought to life using his unique microtonal scale of 43 notes to the octave. These found and overheard texts paint a dark and desperate personal vision of America laced with humour, profanity and repressed desire.
The concert will include the Australasian premieres of various Partch compositions, all performed on a specially commissioned guitar.
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Tickets $15
or
from Moshtix's direct ticketing link HERE
from Moshtix's direct ticketing link HERE
Co-presented with Melbourne Music Week
Presented as part of Melbourne Music Week’s Self-Made program.
Curated by Sophia Brous and Woody MacDonald.
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My replica of Harry Partch's Adapted Guitar no.1 [1943]
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My replica of Harry Partch's Adapted Guitar no.1 [1943]
