In memory of Nic Gotham and Michael J Baker

7 danses (pour «15») pays tribute to the number 15, since several of its sections are subdivided by it. In each new dance, motifs and themes recur in ways that are recognisable, but each time in a new perspective, like theatrical characters in different lighting scenarios.

Almost thirty years after composing it, I am pleased to discern traits and interests that have characterised many of my pieces since then: An interest in juxtaposing, wedding, and superimposing musical styles, including so-called ‘popular’ or ‘serious’ forms; a fascination with off-kilter rhythmic cycles, like the varied orbits of planets around the sun; and polyphonic composition in which several melodies and countermelodies stratify toward a point of saturation.

[ix-18]

Created at The Music Gallery in Toronto in 1989.

Premiere

• 1989, Concert, The Music Gallery, Toronto (Ontario, Canada)

Performers

• Jean Derome et les Dangereux Zhoms (Jean Derome, flute, alto saxophone, baritone saxophone; Guillaume Dostaler, piano; Pierre Cartier, double bass; Pierre Tanguay, drum set)
• Jean René, conductor
• Guido Del Fabbro, violin
• Lori Freedman, bass clarinet, clarinet
• Craig Pedersen, trumpet
• Scott Thomson, trombone
• Julie Houle, tuba
• Bernard Falaise, electric guitar
• Olivier Maranda, percussion