Habanera Meccanica

Habanera Meccanica for double bass and piano by Joseph Davies.

Programme Notes

In this dance between double bass and piano, the ever-present habanera rhythm is subject to various rhythmic additions and dislocations, like a malfunctioning machine constantly threatening to collapse under its own weight. Around this the double bass weaves various textures, sometimes songlike and sometimes indulging in the earthy physicality so characteristic of the instrument.

It was written for the British double bassist Sebastian Pennar and first performed by him and Chris Lyons (piano) at the Royal College of Music on 17 March 2010.

Duration: 7 minutes