Contrasts

Georgi Mintchev wrote Contrasts at the request of Thomas Kalb, GMD of the Heidelberg Philharmonic Orchestra (Germany), for the 2003-2004 music season. A poetic and emotional, yet virtuosic piece where the dynamic and rhythmic content covers a wide range of sequences, from the aggressive to the peaceful, drawing on the resources provided by contemporary schools of musical composition, but respectful of the basic tenets of traditional music.

To challenge the virtuosity of the orchestral soloists and their various sections, some jazz and chamber music elements have been artfully included. The work discreetly contains some historical and cultural references to Bulgaria, the composer's country. The result is a sort of musical fireworks display or, stated differently, a kaleidoscope of sound colors with rhythmical and dynamic variations.

Instrumentation: 3.2.3.2-4.3.3.1-perc.(3), 4 timp., strings