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Runaway Variations (2016)

Piano duo (with auxiliary percussion). 10:00.

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.

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.

Composed for the Viney-Grinberg Piano Duo.

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