Intra (1971, rev. 1989) for bass clarinet, soundtracks and ring modulator

In this work bass clarinet sounds have been transformed in the studio. The piece starts with a ppp bottom Bb blown into a microphone, resulting in a kind of microtonal 'mud' consisting of reed and spittle sound. This reminded me strongly of the muddylike structure the sculptor Giacometti creates out of clay. Intra is a journey through the tube of a bass clarinet, travelling through holes and around keys. One channel of the tape contains only sinewaves. By means of a pedal operated productmodulator the bass clarinettist can mix his sounds with these sinewaves. In this way Intra makes partial use of live electronics.

(from the sleeve notes of the CD Looking Ears 3)

Commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Culture and Harry Sparnaay.