for large orchestra (2024)
3 (picc.).3 (ca) .3 (bcl).3 (cbsn), 4.3.3.1, timp+4, harp, pno/cel, strings 14.12.10.8.6
duration: 20’
GRT • 237
score available from
Wise Music
program note
i: The Gate
ii: Pulse of the Earth
This symphony in two movements was written for The University of Melbourne Orchestra, under the direction of my colleague, Richard Davis. It was conceived at the Akiyoshidai International Art Village (AIAV) in Japan, where I was Artist in Residence in 2019, and again in 2023.
The two movements are based on permanent works of sculpture created and installed in 1998 for the opening of AIAV. Created by Japanese artists, they are quite different but equally invite our contemplation of human presence in the natural world. For new visitors to the Art Village, they function as sign-posts leading to the facility designed by architect Arata Isozaki. AIAV is located far away from the noise of everyday city life and is surrounded by natural resources.
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AIAV The Gate Pulse of the Earth
i. The Gate
Created by Yonekichi Tanaka, Untitled No.218 outlines a giant red steel rectangle. The gate of the Art Village is located in a narrow gap between the hills. You start from the very narrow space of the gate, then a path leads you along to the broader space. As you go farther beyond the gate, you can sense how spacious the land is, how deep the green colour of the mountains is and how high the sky is.
ii. Pulse of the Earth
Made from an imposing single piece of polished granite, Pulse of the Earth (ancient resonance) by Takeshi Tanabe is placed in a natural state at the turnoff leading to the Art Village: “the percussionist’s pulse laps over the endless resonance of the rippling waves that never stop travelling from the past and present to the future – a pulse of the Earth that never diminishes.”
The premiere performance was given by The University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra with Richard Davis (conductor) at Hamer Hall on 11 May 2025.