Landscape

Tranquillity of the wetlands, pre-damage, are themes communicated, along with the geographic location and vastness of the area. The rhythm and melodic shape provide a gentle atmosphere. Elements of Bolivian folk music, such as the hocket (where melody is shared between instruments) and the use of flutes, were incorporated into all movements, to help communicate the location. Furthermore, one may not expect South America to be associated with colder climates, yet the wetlands’ low temperatures were also communicated by using the sound characteristics of a celesta instrument, suggestive of an icy or cold environment.

The speed is slow, but not extremely slow. This creates natural momentum and a feeling that life is progressing calmly. The rhythm of the music is designed to create a gentle flowing atmosphere. The music seeks to provide positive emotions, reflecting the natural environment before the arrival of extreme weather, heard in later movements.