Metamorphosis

Composer:  Martha Hunt
Major/Class: Studio Art/Senior
Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina
Genre: Quintet for Three Mbiras (Martha Hunt, Jeremy Hunt, Philip Sasser) and Two Djembes (Travis Lloyd, John Wilson)

Metamorphosis functions on a simple concept involving two “ensembles” – one with two African djembes (drums), the other with three African mbiras (thumb-pianos). These instruments are central to African music traditions. Although they differ in their construction (the djembe is a membrane stretched over a hollow shell while the mbira consists of small metal keys mounted on a wooden base), both rely on the combination of simple patterns in forming their unique expression. The djembe’s dynamic employs additive and divisive rhythms, creating an interlock of contrasting rhythmic patterns when two or more djembes are played. The resulting juxtaposition of beats creates various levels of density, and an entirely new tapestry of sound, which can be repeated indefinitely. While the djembe is characterized by rhythm, the mbira’s strength lies in melodic patterns, i.e. combinations of interlocking ostinato patterns both between left and right hands on a single mbira, and between multiple mbiras. Although each ostinato pattern uses a limited collection of pitches, a kaleidescopic sound emerges when several simple phrases are layered and repeated. Such ostinato patterns (repeated sequences) give the mbira its elegance and texture.

Metamorphosis opens with a djembe duet, an energetic prelude leading to an mbira solo. This solo highlights the delicacy of the mbira and sets the stage for two additional mbiras to join in an ostinato pattern. The drums and mbiras then engage in an alternating, organic process as they grow and modulate from their initial formation. After two distinct sections of exchange between djembe and mbira, the two groups merge in a third and final manifestation. This fusion of sound is marked by a spontaneity intended to symbolize life and the paradox of constant change coupled with infinite repetition.
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