For cello & guitar. Duration c. 7 mins. Edited by Heleen du Plessis and Matthew Marshall.

Includes score and separate parts.

LISTEN

Autumn Moods was commissioned by Matthew Marshall and first performed by him with Heleen du Plessis at the Sargood Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand on 10 August 2017.

This short piece reflects on the colours and lighting of Autumn, and also the aging process. It is song-like in places, with the cello playing long lines over the gently rocking guitar part. The first section is slow and melancholic, while the second section is quicker with repeated patterns that flow like running water. A more determined theme played on guitar brings the piece to a climax, before the music winds down to a quiet close.

I wanted to create a piece that Matthew and Heleen would enjoy playing, so there is considerable interplay between the parts, and some technical challenges. However, the main focus is on creating moods and emotions, and making space for the players to express themselves on their instruments. - Anthony Ritchie

Autumn Moods has been recorded by Heleen du Plessis and Matthew Marshall on the album Brighter Than Blue (Rattle RAT-D108)