Torrent, by Sydney-based composer Harry Sdraulig (born 1992), was commissioned by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and premièred in 2021. This is its first performance by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.

The composer writes: Torrent begins with immediate, unrelenting forward motion. Flurries disperse among the winds and strings, supported by bold, fanfare-like interjections from the brass and percussion. But before long a second theme emerges – one of complete rhythmic simplicity and contrast, first heard in the pizzicato strings and then passed to the woodwinds. After a brief return of the opening flourish, a languid oboe solo heralds the beginning of a gentle, slow intermezzo. Muted brass and vibraphone accompany an extended violin solo, eventually entwined with lyrical responses from the piccolo. However, the relative peace of this passage proves short-lived – trumpets and snare drum drive towards an extended recapitulation in which the second theme is entirely transformed to make for a martial, tumultuous conclusion.

Performed live as part of Sibelius Violin Concerto on 28 July 2023 at Federation Concert Hall, nipaluna / Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

PROGRAM
Harry Sdraulig, Torrent

Conductor: Giordano Bellincampi
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra