(Vermona '14) Debussy: Syrinx

Published on Oct 17, 2018 Kris Lennox

"Debussy's 'Syrinx', here performed on synth. Original is, of course, solo flute - but it translates very, very well to synth - especially the Vermona, given its expressive qualities.

I'm working on a project at present for a client, hence a different instrument from the norm (i.e. the Vermona is out anyway).

The Vermona is something of a rare beast. Even rarer is hearing a full performance on the '14. It should probably be kept that way i.e. very elusive ;)

I chose Debussy to illustrate the Vermona for a few reasons, namely:

1) It is a great piece for showing off the highly expressive capabilities of the Vermona

2) I'm working on dance music at present, and Debussy makes a refreshing change :)

The tone I've went for here is very unusual/odd - this is to complement the nature of the music. Vermona's tone is stunning. Possibly the finest tone of any modern analog mono. The MB has far greater sound design capabilities - but for a pure tone, there aren't many synths to touch this.

Coloured score on the wall is Syrinx. I often colour to define sections. Great way of quickly showing/identifying structure.

Performance duration of this recording is longer than most recordings. Synths, unlike flute players, don't have the all-very human worry of running out of breath :) as such, phrases can be given full space/length. I personally think the piece sounds great on a synth such as this.

PS here's a link to the score - http://imslp.eu/files/imglnks/euimg/2...

Best
Kris"