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Becoming

Becoming is by composer Johanna Selleck and performed by Merlyn Quaife (soprano), Dean Sky-Lucas (countertenor), Jerzy Kozlowski (bass), Adam Simmons (shakuhachi), Lynette Rayner (violin), Zachary Johnston (violin), Barbara Hornung (viola), and Caerwen Martin (cello).

Becoming is based on two forms of Japanese poetry – haiku and renga. The brief, vivid images that are essence of haiku express something deeper than words – the sharing of feelings and perceptions that are universal and transcend the barriers of language and culture. Reinforcing this idea of connection, Becoming uses haiku in 3 languages (French, English, and Tibetan) by poets from tenth-century Japan through to contemporary Australia. Becoming is structured in the style of renga, which is an ‘elongated’ from of haiku incorporating linked stanzas composed by different poets.

The song cycle is divided into 4 sections based on the seasons, plus a finale. Each section begins with a ‘universal’ image relating to nature, moving to a more personalized perspective. The poems form an overall narrative suggesting cycles of birth, death, and renewal.

Artist

Johanna Selleck

Johanna currently teaches at Melbourne University and the Victorian College of the Arts. She also works as a music critic for the Herald Sun as well as numerous local and national magazines and journals.


Track Listing

  1. Spring Johanna Selleck
  2. Summer Johanna Selleck
  3. Shakuhachi cadenza Johanna Selleck
  4. Autumn Johanna Selleck
  5. Winter Johanna Selleck
  6. Interlude Johanna Selleck
  7. Finale Johanna Selleck

Performers

Where to buy

Becoming is available as as CD. It can be purchased online through Buywell Music or the Australian Music Centre which both offer secure online ordering.

Move CDs can be ordered through music retailers across Australia including Readings.

Product details

List price
$25.00 AUD
Release date
April 2022
Copyright
© 2022 Johanna Selleck
Phonogram
℗ 2022 Move Records
Categories
Classical, Cross-cultural
Catalogue number
MCD 629
Alternate catalogue number
MCD629
Barcode
EAN 9314574062922