Conditional Action for Two Flutes (2016) [Playing score(s)]

You really have to be comfortable with complex rhythms and multiphonics to tackle this fascinating duet. There are other contemporary techniques used too and it is the combination of textures coupled with the unpredictablilty of the writing that is so appealing. Quiet passages of airy sounds and soft dynmamics contrast with spikey articulated sections or cascades of notes, all enhanced by glissandi, fluttertonguing and pitch bending. This produces a piece that will challenge both the performers and their audience which is sometimes exactly what you need!

John Palmer has an amazingly creative output of works for flutes and Conditional Action, written in 2016, builds upon this catalogue.  In this five-minute piece Palmer explores the full spectrum of flute technique from microtonality and aeolian sounds to mutiphonic work all wrapped together in complex rhythmic structures.  One particularly effective gesture is the mutiphonic trills that open the work; these are full of sonic infomation which the players are asked to 'bring out ad lib'.  This moment of freedom juxtaposes the otherwise tightly controlled timbres and rhythms that dominate the piece as the two voices appear as one singular line. Intentions for the more experimental techniques are clear and mostly very practical; however achieving these will require the player to explore their instrument and technique as specific fingerings and embouchure techniques are not given.  This piece brings a level of complexity and virtuosity that is often reserved for the solo repertoire into a duet setting and so Conditional Action is undoubtedly an undertaking for two adventurous flute players who are well versed in the performance of contemporary music.