Heinz Holliger

Machaut Transcriptions

In Heinz Holliger's works, the succinct term 'transcriptions' conceals multi-layered variants of the enigmatic source material and the most subtle diversification of sound, using the technical possibilities of the 21st century. In the complete, almost one-hour cycle, Machaut's original compositions, which are to be performed a cappella, have been interwoven with Holliger's transcriptions. Four of the transcriptions have been arranged for three violas alone. The traditional monophonic lay 'Amours doucement me tente', however, appears in a new four-part vocal setting. It is only in the concluding complainte 'Tels rit au main qui au soir pleure' that the singing voices join the violas.