Identitas

Identitas is a suite of four studies on identity, each inspired by a quotation from a prominent intellectual. Every movement serves as a musical commentary on its corresponding citation. For me, the very concept of an ‘étude’ embodies both an exploration of the ideas suggested by the quotation and a focused study of one or more technical aspects specific to the harp – harmonics, muted chords, harmonic and chordal alternations, and inspirations drawn from early music…
1. Le «Moi » – The ‘Self ’ of man is not reducible to his lived identity. (Jacques Lacan, Écrits) A grand ascending arch, expanding in nuance, range, and energy.
2. La Contrainte – Constraint, as much as freedom, is an integral part of our human identity. (Nancy Huston) A play of contrasts between very dry chords and a gentle, rocking counterpoint. The two briefly overlap.
3. La Confirmation – To be confirmed in my identity, I depend entirely on others. (Hannah Arendt) Simple melismas leading to sweeping alternations of chords.
4. La Transformation – Identity is not given once and for all, it is constructed and transformed throughout existence. (Amin Maalouf) Inspired by an ancient melody, this transformation begins with a lulling motion and evolves into the original citation.

Identitas follows Altéritas, a quartet for violin, clarinet, saxophone, and cello written in 2024 for the Ars Nova Ensemble, where I similarly explored four intellectual quotations centered on the concept of ‘otherness.’ This work represents the continuation of a personal artistic and philosophical journey, resonating with fundamental concepts.