percussion: marimba, vibraphone, gong, tam-tam
Commissioned by Duo Contemporain
First performance by Duo Contemporain - Henri Bok (bass clarinet), Evert le Mair (percussion), De Suite, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 2 May 1983
Reviews
[Boatsong] is of exceptionally high quality. The atmosphere created by the repeated marimba notes reached its climax in the alto saxophone's lament. The fascinating beauty of this work was justly reflected in the audience's loud applause.
Gert van Veen, Het Parool
Boatsong uses the odd combination of marimba and bass clarinet to melodically simple, rhythmically nervous, emotionally haunting effect.
Fred Blanks, Sydney Morning Herald