Arupadhatu: The Formless World

Arupadhatu: The Formless World by Robert Fruehwald (2004)

2 flutes – 1 playing score

Contains instructions for extended techniques used : harmonics, variable speed vibrato

Arupadhatu: The Formless World was written to accompany choreographer Josephine Garibaldi's dance piece Anticipatory Illumination (2004).  Josephine studied dance in Java and while there she visited the Borobudur temple.  The temple takes the form of a pyramid which depicts the spiritual journey from Kamadhatu (the world of desires) to Arupadhatu (the formless world).  Garibaldi's choreography reflects this journey and ends in the formless world as the music of the flute duet comes to a close.  

The duet calls for harmonics and a variable speed vibrato.  The vibrato is inspired by the extremely fast vibrato used by Andean flutists.  I find that I cannot personally perform this kind of vibrato for very long.  When indicated on longer notes, I suggest speeding the vibrato up then slowing it down again.  The duet should be played with a certain amount of freedom.  Strict rhythmic coordination between the parts is essential only at the end.  —- R. Fruehwald