The pitch collection used in Peanootz is derived from symmetrically expanding intervals around an axial pitch. For example, given an axis on G4, the next scale degrees are A-flat and F-sharp (a minor second above and below the axis), then B-flat and E (a major second above and below the previous); then D-flat and D-flat (a minor third from the previous), and so on, up to eight pitches in both directions. Octave equivalents are not recognized; pitches only appear in the octaves for which they were derived. For harmonic contrast, three such pitch collections were used, with axes on E4, G4, and B4. Many other musical dimensions are obtained from the symmetrical and expanding nature of the pitch sets, such as note durations, rhythms, symmetric harmonies, and symmetric chord pairs. Peanootz was composed for the Boston-based ensemble, Hub New Music, with the support of a grant from the Provost’s Office at Northeastern University.
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