Atlas Eclipticalis is the title of the collection of astronomical charts employed by John Cage in the composition of his work of the same name. Using transparent overlays he determined by means of chance operations which stars on the charts were to be notes and how these notes were to relate to one another. The work, commissioned in 1961 by the Montreal Festivals Society, was completed in 1962 and comprises 86 instrumental parts (for full orchestra) “to be played in whole or part, any duration, in any ensemble, chamber or orchestral." The present recording superimposes digital tapings of three parts for flute “(treble clef) changing with piccolo and alto flute ad lib. “ without a conductor. A performance may be at any point between minimum activity (silence) and maximum activity (what’s written). Based from my correspondences with Cage in 1987, my recording, completed in January, 2002, represents the culmination of a project spanning a 15 year period. Specifically, the analysis of the existing orchestral parts for flute, the generation and notation of precise microtonal versions of each, and the resulting recording and digital editing of each part with piccolo/alto flute doublings (9 parts total). This final recording is dedicated to the great shakuhachi master, Masayuki Koga. Since 1983, the sagacious virtuosity of Masayuki Koga has had the most profound influence on my personal artistry. His friendship and guidance have been invaluable, and without whom, this album would not have been possible. Only the natural sound of the instruments is heard.

 

Carlton Vickers

 

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