Disappearing in Light

Disappearing in Light is the fifth part of the Tantric Cycle, a series of compositions inspired by Eastern philosophy. It was recorded by HERMESensemble on the CD “Disappearing in Light” (2010), together with Raga III for viola and electronics and The Four Elements. Disappearing in Light was composed in 2008, commissioned by Inspiratum, on the occasion of Axel Vervoordt's 60th birthday, to be performed at locations in the Kanaal in Wijnegem. The HERMESensemble also performed this work with Wim Henderickx as conductor in Venice, Paris, Antwerp and Utrecht. In 2010, Wim Henderickx rewrote this work for trumpet, alto flute, viola and percussion, especially for the opening of the Jef Verheyen exhibition in Neuss, Germany. Disappearing in Light consists of three main parts: Darkness, Meditation and Light. Between these main parts are two Interludes, consisting of self-constructed mantras. The first interlude is strong and rhythmic, the second soft and melodious. The spatial arrangement of the musicians is very important. The lighting also plays an important role: part 1 takes place in the dark with only the musicians illuminated, part 2 in semi-darkness and part 3 fully illuminated. Like other works from the Tantric Cycle, the composition is based on the tantric mode, a self-constructed microtonal scale. From this mode, series were constructed that form the basis for the melodic and harmonic material of the work. Rhythmically, a duality between exact timing and a more free indication was chosen. Various serial processes were used. The text itself was constructed according to the same strategies as the ordering of the other parameters.