As a composer, I spent months immersed in research into the mathematical elegance of recursive functions, a journey that became the foundation of a unique composition. Drawing on programming in C and Csound, I wove together a sonic tapestry that bridges the worlds of mathematics and music. My daily encounters with counterpoint as a classical pianist—especially inspired by the works of Bach—played a vital role in shaping this piece. Counterpoint, for me, echoes the primal sounds of ancient discovery, reminiscent of echoes in a cave, a metaphor for the origins of music.
This idea is further enriched by the use of the recorder, the world’s oldest known instrument, dating back 24,000 years. Its evolving, delayed sounds symbolize the slow but profound journey of human self-awareness and civilization.
“The Fall” is a sonic exploration of timelessness and transcendence, rooted in the rituals of Neanderthal culture. In imagining the fall of Adam as a metaphor for humanity’s transition into self-awareness and civilization, I sought to capture the essence of this journey through sound. The first and third movements consciously avoid modern sounds to evoke an ancient aura. The fourth movement integrates consonant harmonies shaped by musical intervals, reflecting a sense of unity and balance. In the fifth movement, melody and harmony converge, symbolizing humanity’s transition from nomadic existence to the structured rhythm of modern civilization and industrialization.
Aida Hormozian, an exceptional recorder performer born in Tehran in 1990, brings this piece to life with her artistry. Her musical journey began at a young age, leading her to earn a Master’s degree in English Literature while simultaneously developing her recorder expertise. Her passion for the recorder grew through her participation in festivals across Iran, eventually inspiring her to explore contemporary recorder techniques under Sarah Jeffery’s guidance.
Aida’s commitment to expanding the recorder’s expressive possibilities culminated in her performance in The Fall, a collaborative Electro-Acoustic work that showcases her dedication to the instrument and her artistic evolution. Together, we pushed the boundaries of traditional and contemporary music, creating a piece that connects ancient traditions with modern expression.