Pléiades is one of the most beautiful pieces written by Iannis Xenakis. The richness of the timbres, the freedom and coherence of the composition make this work a unique rhythmic adventure.
The very essence of this piece lies in the fact that it cannot be delimited by a simple definition. The instruments used range from keyboards (vibraphone and marimba), to various percussion instruments and the “sixxen” – a percussion instrument specially created for this composition.
Iannis Xenakis shows the strength of the extraordinary in percussions with these three emblematic pieces that “demand extreme virtuosity from the performer” (Makis Solomos). Psappha is a piece for solo percussion, with a large instrumental ensemble (five groups) in which the composer focuses on the variation in density of the different groups. Rebonds is part of a group of works (Pléiades, Idmen B), in which a great rhythmic regularity is asserted, voluntarily limiting itself to the impact. Okho, composed for the bicentenary of the French Revolution, is for three musicians playing the djembe.
More informations about Xenakis works.