Since his last engagement with ANAM, Brett Dean has continued to weave musical magic throughout his compositions. Three such new works are Music of Memory (2016), Confessio (2019), and Imaginary Ballet (2021).
Music of Memory
Music of Memory stands as a poignant work for string orchestra, honouring three friends and colleagues who passed away in recent years. Dean's approach goes beyond mere memorial; he sought to capture the vibrant essence and energy of these individuals' lives alongside expressing the sadness of their departure. The final movement, Between the Spaces in the Sky, serves as a requiem for Richard Hickox, the esteemed British conductor and former Artistic Director of Opera Australia, whose premature passing deeply impacted Brett.
In contrast, the opening movement, Angels' Wings (Music for Yodit), originally a piano piece, pays homage to Yodit Tekle, an Eritrean refugee who made her mark in the UK before her untimely death from cancer. This movement unfolds as a slow, floating chorale enriched by delicate violin solos, symbolising the flutter of angels' wings.
The middle movement, György Meets the Girl Photographer, channels a rhythmic, Eastern European dance in tribute to Betty Freeman, a vibrant arts philanthropist from Los Angeles known for her feisty spirit and significant impact on the arts scene. Inspired by her legendary encounter with composer György Ligeti, this movement reflects Brett’s playful yet respectful exploration of their dynamic personality.
Confesso
It's a solo piece for bass clarinet composed from material from his highly successful opera Hamlet, offers an introspective monologue portraying Hamlet's uncle, Claudius, reflecting on guilt and the consequences of his actions. This composition showcases Brett's ability to delve into complex psychological themes with nuanced musical expression. Hamlet has had a number of successful productions in the world’s great opera houses – Glyndebourne, The Metropolitan Opera in New York, and at the Sydney Opera House with Opera Australia in July 2024.
Imaginary Ballet
Imaginary Ballet was originally composed for piano and strings, and emerged during the pandemic era, capturing a suite of energetic, dance-like movements intertwined with moments of quiet introspection. Titles like Obsessions, Stretto Dance, and Skittish reveal rhythmic vitality and emotional depth amidst global uncertainty.
As ANAM's audience, familiar with Brett Dean’s contributions, continue to appreciate his artistic evolution, each composition—whether commemorating friends, exploring Shakespearean themes, or embracing dynamic musical forms— underscores Brett’s mastery in blending technical brilliance with profound emotional resonance.
Experience these works across two performances this August, as part of Brett Dean’s residency.
Wednesday 21 August 3pm
LISZT Nuages gris
B DEAN Faustian Pact (Hommage à Liszt) - Australian Premiere
B DEAN Confessio
B DEAN Imaginary Ballet
Brett Dean director/viola
ANAM Musicians
Venue Rosina Auditorium, Abbotsford Convent
Tickets from $20
This performance also includes a post-performance discussion with Brett Dean, hosted by Evan Lawson.
ANAM ORCHESTRA WITH BRETT DEAN and STEFANIE FARRANDS
Saturday 24 August 7pm
B DEAN Music of Memory - Australian Premiere
B DEAN Imaginary Ballet
BERLIOZ Harold in Italy
Brett Dean director/viola
Stefanie Farrands viola
ANAM Musicians
Venue Rosina Auditorium, Abbotsford Convent
Tickets from $30
Brett Dean’s Artistic Residency at ANAM is supported by Peter Jopling AM KC and Richard Parker.
Words by Evan Lawson.
First published in volume 52 of Music Makers.