2016

The single-note piano motif which begins Kanye West's "Runaway" is the starting point for this set of four variations.  Kanye's descending octave theme is treated in an eight-voice counterpoint, slowly cascading from right to left across the piano keyboard.

 

There is a dual meaning implied in the title, in that material from West is varied (in parts 1 & 4), whereas in parts 2 & 3, the variations seem to literally "run away" pell mell, at breakneck speed.

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The pianists are asked to add gongs, snare and bass drum in the outer movements, extending their colour palette as well as evoking the beats of Kanye's original song.

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Composed for the Viney-Grinberg Piano Duo.