In Performance: Dérive I

Dérive translates roughly as “derivative”; the piece is derived from two of Boulez's other compositions Répons (1981) and Messagesquisse (1976/77). The “derivative” is also a sequence of variations “on the name Sacher”. Six chords build a circular rotation, which mimic the structure of the piece, but also soften it.

The piece was premiered in 1985 by the London Sinfonietta, conducted by the late Oliver Knussen.

Pierre Boulez Dérive I

Jonathan Berman conductor
London Sinfonietta

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This project is produced with the friendly support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
The London Sinfonietta is grateful to Arts Council England for its generous support of the ensemble, as well as the many other individuals, trusts and businesses who enable us to realise our ambitions.

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Published: 12 May 2022

In Performance: Dérive I

This project is produced with the friendly support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
The London Sinfonietta is grateful to Arts Council England for its generous support of the ensemble, as well as the many other individuals, trusts and businesses who enable us to realise our ambitions.

Support our work

Texts cost £5, £10 or £20 plus one standard rate message, and you’ll be opting in to hear more about our work and fundraising via telephone and SMS. If you’d like to give but do not wish to receive marketing communications, text NEWMUSICNOINFO 5, 10 or 20 to 70450.

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This project is produced with the friendly support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation The London Sinfonietta is grateful to Arts Council England for its generous support of the ensemble, as well as the many other individuals, trusts and businesses who enable us to realise our ambitions.

Support our work

Texts cost £5, £10 or £20 plus one standard rate message, and you’ll be opting in to hear more about our work and fundraising via telephone and SMS. If you’d like to give but do not wish to receive marketing communications, text NEWMUSICNOINFO 5, 10 or 20 to 70450.

More like this

In Performance: Rain Coming

In Performance: Toque

Get more from the London Sinfonietta

This project is produced with the friendly support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
The London Sinfonietta is grateful to Arts Council England for its generous support of the ensemble, as well as the many other individuals, trusts and businesses who enable us to realise our ambitions.