Bang on a Can

"In 1995, Bang on a Can invited me and other Agon Orchestra members to the New York City to perform on their festival - and besides that, they were so generous to ask us to write some music for the next year event. At that time, all of us were fascinated by their skill, drive and virtuosity, applied to a very demanding material - so we reacted in kind of a stubborn way. I got the feeling that their insisting, forceful music lacks moments of peace and serenity, so I tried to project this essence into my piece. With its butterfly delicacy I wanted to build up contrast to the rest of the ensemble's repertory." -Martin Smolka