Jeppe High School for Girls

Performance of Erik Satie’s “Vexations” on 24 June 2016

In honour of the 150th birthday of Erik Satie, the Music Department are excited to perform his composition “Vexations”. The piece is only one minute in length, but is required to be played 840 times. It is the repetitive nature of this performance that will put the endurance and persistence of the pianists to test. It can be seen as an exercise in perseverance; goal setting and achievement and above all, peer support and teamwork. One pianist must continue from the previous one, without a break in the performance. Although a roster will be drawn up, performers are free to fill in for others if need be.

The first complete performance of this piece was organised in New York by composer John Cage – involving 12 pianists and 2 ‘reserves’. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vexations).

Interpretations of this work differ considerably. There are no dynamic, articulation or phrasing markings, which leaves interpretive possibilities limitless.

The artists taking part number more than 20 pianists and include current music students, Jeppe Old Girls, teachers and parents. They will perform “Vexations” in the form of a marathon concert which will commence at 18h00 and last anything between 14 – 20 hours.

Tea/coffee/hot chocolate will be on sale for the duration of the concert. Although this is not a fund-raiser, any donations of appreciation of the endurance and commitment of the artists will be appreciated.

 

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