Abstract
Huhu Hoedown, for violin and piano, as its name implies, takes a humorous approach to the idea of a large beetle dancing. The hoedown’s lively, tonal dance-styleis used to explore several violin effects – pizzicato, open-string and fingered double stopping – and the piano takes the recognisable role of bass and banjo.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Place of Publication | Wollongong, N.S.W. |
| Publisher | Wirripang |
| Edition | ISMN: 979 0 67314 669 3 |
| Size | 3 pages |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
Research Statement
Research background (field, context, research question)Few Australasian composers draw on the characteristics and qualities of insects in their compositions. One exception is award-winning Australian composer, Ross Edwards, whose relationship with sounds of the insect world permeate his ‘maninya’ music. Yet this rich world of Australasian insects is open to exploration by others.
Research contribution (innovation, new knowledge)
The musical composition, Huhu Hoedown, for violin and piano, addresses the issue of Australasian insects in music, exploring a humorous approach to the idea of a large beetle dancing a hoedown, an American dance whose rhythms have been used by American classical composers such as Aaron Copland in their orchestral writing. Huhu Hoedown engages with the dance style through several violin effects – pizzicato, open-string and fingered double stopping – and the piano takes the recognisable role of bass and banjo.
Research significance (evidence of excellence)
The significance of this work is that it was accepted for publication by Wirripang Pty. Ltd.
Keywords
- violin and piano
- insect