BLUE CLIFFS

Composed over a period of four years, between 1985 and 1989, Blue Cliffs is one of the most intense and evocative works by Cuban-born composer Jorge Lopez. American-trained and sensitive to Eastern spirituality, Lopez composed much of the work immersed in the unspoilt nature of the Methow Valley, Washington State. The deep contact with the elements is clearly evident in Blue Cliffs, in which Lopez gives voice to the environment, evokes archaic sound worlds, favouring dark timbres and exploring the deepest regions of sound. The reduced ensemble of 13 instrumentalists enhances each individual voice, allowing for very pronounced dynamic and timbral contrasts. The title refers to a fundamental text of the Zen tradition - “Hekiganroku” - published in English as “The Blue Cliff Record”. Lopez was struck by the expressive power of the images with which nature was described, so akin to his innermost feelings. Blue Cliffs is a journey through tension, suspension and inner transformation.