(sonata da chiesa)

For variable number of players, of any instrumental combination

The stage is in darkness except for an illuminated fish tank placed in front of the players. Inside the tank is one fish for each player, preferably corresponding visually to his instrument in some way and easily distinguishable from the other fish. The piece begins when an assistant pours a small amount of food into the tank. As the fish swim about, each player musically interprets the fish according to the following scheme:

High Soft Loud Low

Durations and articulations are free. When the assistant turns out the light, the piece is ended. (NOTE: There should not be any more players than can comfortable sit around the fish tank, and players should avoid tonality and whole-tone passages.)

Bobby Griffith March 7, 1978

1978 Bobby Griffith