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Mettraux Laurent

(27. 05. 1970)

Mettraux Laurent
Mettraux Laurent
Route Principale 160
CH-1791 Courtaman (FR)
Schweiz

Tel: +41 (0)26 684 18 65
Fax: +41 (0)26 684 18 65

www.laurentmettraux.com

 

Genre: Classical Music
Professional activity: Composers
Biography
* 27. 05. 1970.

Born in Fribourg (Switzerland), Laurent Mettraux studied at the "Conservatoire de Fribourg" (musical theory with René Oberson, piano, violin and singing) and in Geneva (composition with Eric Gaudibert, conducting with Liang-Sheng Chen). He also attended courses in early music and musicology. He was awarded the grant of the Kiefer Hablitzel Foundation (Swiss Association of Musicians). He benefited from the master classes and good avice of Klaus Huber, Luis de Pablo, Arvo Pärt, Paul Méfano et. al.
In 1993 he received the 1st prize and the prize of the public at the first competition for young composers organised by the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra. He was finalist in the Concours Européen de Composition Chorale (Amiens) and laureate of several foundations. In 1998 he was awarded the prize of the prestigious festival "Donaueschinger Musiktage" for his work for orchestra "Ombre", which was chosen from more than 80 competition entries (in the jury were: Wolfgang Rihm, Gérard Grisey, Christian Wolff, Sylvain Cambreling). In 2000 he was honoured with ad personam grant for his "remarkable contribution to the musical life in Switzerland and abroad".
He wrote numerous works and commissions for interpreters, concert associations, festivals, radios and foundations. His compositions are being played increasingly in Switzerland and abroad. His style is appreciated as much by specialists of contemporary music as it is by musicians and the general public. He is one of the youngest composers whose biography has been published in the International Who is Who in Music and Musicians Directory since the publication of the 16th edition in 1998.
His works have been performed in numerous countries all over the world and by a big number of famous interpreters like: the Quatuor Talich, Tibor Varga, Jesus Lopez-Cobos, Sylvain Cambreling, Francisco Araiza, the Zürcher Streichtrio, the New London Chamber Choir. Amongst his more recent works are: an oratorio for the Swiss National Exhibition; "Complainte" for solo violin, comissioned by Shlomo Mintz and to be the compulsory piece at the "Concours International de Violon de Sion"; a choral work, comissioned by winning the award of the Foundation for Universal Sacred Music of New York; "Emergences" for violin and accordion, premiered by Marianne Piketty and Pascal Contet; a double concerto for the violin player Boris Lischvitz and the famous pipa player Yang Jing; a quintet for flute and strings for Alexandre Magnin and the Quatuor Janacek; a concert for organ on the occasion of the inauguration of the new organ at the Lausanne Cathedral, which is to be replayed by the Leipzig "Gewandhaus Orchester" under Riccardo Chailly in 2008.


Work list

Sonata (Nachtmusik), M. 451 (1990)

Instrumentation: for flute solo

The subtitle indicates only an atmosphere without giving any descriptive indications. Contemporary playing techniques (like multiphonics) alternate with more lyrical passages.

Duration: 9' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 16.00
Gethsemané, M. 456 (1990)

Instrumentation: for organ

Simultaneous evocation of pain and resignition. At least two manuals and pedals are required. Sounds particularly nice on big organs in the romantic style.

Duration: 4' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 16.00
Lacrimosa, M.458 (1990/2006)

Instrumentation: for orchestra or chamber orchestra (2.2.2(2 bthn ad libitum).2/2.2.0.0/3perc/str)

This work, conceived as a "Tomb of Mozart", draws its thematic substance from two quotations, one is taken from the Masonic Funeral Music KV 477, and the other from the requiem's lacrimosa. Erected like a funeral monument with granite walls, this dramatic work contains a more elegiac central part.

Duration: 8' 00"
Manuscript
Sonate en 1 mouvement, M. 463 (1991)

Instrumentation: for piano

A tragic and elevated work with a large variety of nuances. Very passionate.

Duration: 8' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 23.00
Racines avides, M. 462 (1991-1992)

Instrumentation: for voice and piano

Texts: Luce Peclard

7 poems in French language by Luce Péclard relating the human search for the inside of his being. Polyphonic, subtle accompaniment by the piano; more mystical and bare parts.

Duration: 17' 00"
Manuscript
Symphonie pour Orchestre de Chambre, M. 466 (1992)

Instrumentation: (2(pic).2(ca).2(bcl)2(cbn)/2.2.0.0/timp/str)

This work received the first prize in the first competition for young composers in 1993.A tragic and passionate work which accentuates the qualities of a chamber orchestra.

Duration: 14' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 49.00
(Parts are available seperately from the composer)
"Hommage à Olivier Messiaen", M. 465 (1992)

Instrumentation: for organ

Inspired by the poetic atmosphere of the great french composer. Tender mourning leading into serenity. Composed on the death of Messiaen.

Duration: 4' 00"
Manuscript
Vision Immanente, M.464 (1992/2006)

Instrumentation: for large orchestra (3*.3*.3.3*/4.2.3.1/timp/hp/str)

This work, of epic character, contains very agitated passages contrasting with calm moments.

Duration: 7' 00"
Manuscript
Messe à 8 voix, M. 471 (1993)

Instrumentation: for eight-part mixed a-cappella choir

Texts: Bibel / Liturgie

A very difficult work to play, suitable for a group of eight soloists. Kyrie: tortured and polyphonic, Gloria: tonal and alleluiatic, Sanctus: granitic, Benedictus: melismatic and Agnus Dei: melancholic. In latin.

Duration: 15' 00"
Manuscript
Adagio, M. 473 (1993)

Instrumentation: for violin and piano

A work of classic appearance with a glowing simplicity. The violin part is very singy.

Duration: 5' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 18.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 10.-; € 10.-)
Adagio, M 473b (1993/2010)

Instrumentation: for violin and organ

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Canon I (1993)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
Prélude I (1993)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Quatuor de saxophones, M. 474 (1993)

Instrumentation: for four saxophones (satbar)

In four movements of which the third is a scherzo furioso. Well balanced between the four instrumental parts (with solos for all of them) and particularly well adapted to the timbre and the very expressive character of the saxophone family.

Duration: 22' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 65.00
(4 seperate parts: sFr. 42.-; € 42.-)
5 microludes, M. 525, 479, 550, 558 et 570 (1993-1997)

Instrumentation: for viola solo

These five pieces can be played separately or in any order. They must accentuate the qualities of the viola.

Duration: 10' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 18.00
Sonata, M. 470 (1993)

Instrumentation: for trumpet and organ

Exploits the expressive possibilities of the trumpet. The organ part is without difficulties.

Duration: 6' 00"

SME/EMS
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CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 23.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 10.-; € 10.-)
Lysistrata, M.478 (1993-1994)

Instrumentation: for actors, choir and percussion ensemble

After Aristophanes. Employs more then one hundred percussion instruments. First performed in 1994 (subsequently performed 11 times), directed by the composer, in a place especially prepared for this spectacle.

Duration: 2h 00"
Manuscript
"Nur noch kurze Zeit", M. 503 (1994)

Instrumentation: for mixed choir (four-part)

Texts: Bibel / Liturgie

Quite chromatic and difficult. A polyphony which includes some juicy harmonies. German texts taken from Jesse (XXIX, 17-19).

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Messe, M.486 (1994)

Instrumentation: for male choir (TTBB) and organ (ad libitum)

4 parts: modal Kyrie, alternating organ with choir, of imploring character; playful and dynamic Gloria; solemn and confident Sanctus with Benedictus; tender and nostalgic Agnus Dei, alternating a soloist accompanied ad libitum by the organ with the choir (the soloist's voice can also be sung by the principal tenors).

Duration: 7' 00"
Manuscript
Concerto pour 15 cordes solistes, M. 481 (1994)

Instrumentation: (8.3.3.1)

Every instrumentalist is at the same time soloist, chamber musician and member of an orchestra. Three movements: passionate in the first, elegiac in the second, the third being more rhythmical with successive cadenzas for the fifteen soloists.

Duration: 20' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 91.00
(Parts are available seperately from the composer)
Exils, M. 484 (1994-1997)

Instrumentation: for violin, violoncello and two percussionists

Written in a non-traditional, but easily understandable notation. Mystery, parts of incantation with superposed tempi. The end is lyrical and nostalgic, the violin player leaves the concert hall while continuing to play.

Duration: 9' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 31.00
Fantasia, M. 497 (1994-1995)

Instrumentation: for violin solo

A piece requiring great virtuosity in the middle part ('fantastico'), the beginning and end are very expressive. Contains a fugue on the name BACH.

Duration: 10' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 18.00
Invocation, M. 511 (1994-1996)

Instrumentation: for alto flute solo

Contains quarter-tones. Inspired by the music of the Middle Orient.

Duration: 4' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 13.00
Sonate, M. 487 (1994-1995)

Instrumentation: for guitar

2 versions on the same score: for guitar with 6 or 10 strings. Several episodes linked together: misterioso, presto (virtuoso), serioso (fugue with polyrhythmic) and meditativo.

Duration: 9' 00"
Manuscript
Concerto pour piano et orchestre, M. 505 (1994)

Instrumentation: (3.2.3.3/4.2.3.1/3perc/str)

Impressive work, with a great variety of colours. Slow introduction, virtuoso part followed by a slow movement altogether of great tenderness and great sadness. The end is a slow rise towards the light, going through various stages.

Duration: 17' 00"
Manuscript
Epigramme II (1994)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
Epigramme IV (1994)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 25' 00"
Manuscript
Epigramme V (1994)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 35' 00"
Manuscript
O süsser Mund, o Glaubensgrund (1994)

Instrumentation: for organ

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Thrène, M. 513 (1995)

Instrumentation: for alto saxophone solo

Uses some particularities of contemporary notation to produce a passionate and dreamlike atmosphere.

Duration: 5' 00"

SME/EMS
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CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 13.00
Miroir du silence, M. 514 (1995)

Instrumentation: for harp

Myterious and ruminant work, almost oriental. In the middle the piece retrogrades back to the beginning.

Duration: 10' 00"

SME/EMS
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CHF: 16.00
Trio n. 2, M. 520 (1995-1996)

Instrumentation: for violin, violoncello and piano

A tragic work with tense climates, sometimes mysterious in a terrifying sense, with a scherzo furioso and a calmer end.

Duration: 17' 00"

SME/EMS
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CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 47.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 48.-; € 48.-)
"Vers le soleil couchant", oratorio, M. 528 (1995-1996)

Instrumentation: for four soli (SATB), children's choir or girl choir, mixed choir and orchestra (0.0.acl.2bthn.2/0.2.3.0/2perc/vn&vcsoli/str)

Texts: Gilgamesh-Epos, Emily Brontë, Vedas (indisch), Guillaume Apollinaire

Numerous, equally overlapping texts regarding the problem of death: from the epic of Gilgamesh to E. Brontë, from the Vedas to Apollinaire. A very impressive work in its expressivity and its musical and philosophical progression, with a multitude of climates and a very serene ending.

Duration: 42' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
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info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 122.00
(Parts available seperately form the composer; reduction for piano: sFr. 70.-; € 70.-)
Ombre, M. 515 (1995-1998)

Instrumentation: for orchestra (3(pic).3(ca).3(bcl).3(cbn)/4perc/str)

Impressive work, based on a tale by Edgar Poe, where terror and anguish mix together, with sometimes strange sonorities, from the imperceptible to the imposing ffff. This work won 1998 the prize of the Donaueschinger Musiktage, awarded for the first time. First performance by the SWR Symphony Orchestra Baden-Baden-Freiburg, conducted by Sylvain Cambreling, Donaueschingen, 17.10.1999.

Duration: 14' 00"
Manuscript
Elégie, M. 529 (1995-1997)

Instrumentation: for trombone and organ

A piece of noble temperament, very well suited to the character of the trombone.

Duration: 5' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 21.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 10.-; € 10.-)
Duo for Violin and Violoncello, M. 537 (1996)

An energetic piece using free polyphony and imitation techniques in order to facilitate a succulent and inventive work.

Duration: 9' 00"
Manuscript
Sonate, M. 533 (1996)

Instrumentation: for flute and piano

Three connected parts, amongst them is a scherzo which is inspired by the music of the Andees and a ruminant final, becoming increasingly intimate.

Duration: 14' 00"

SME/EMS
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CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 29.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 14.-; €14.-)
Duo, M. 540 (1996)

Instrumentation: for violin and alto saxophone

The parts are balanced well to ensure the saxophone doesn't cover the violin. Four movements: appassionato, rêveur, energico and intérieur.

Duration: 11' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
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CHF: 23.00
Concerto n. 1, M. 544 (1996)

Instrumentation: for violin and orchestra (2(pic).2(ca).2(bcl).2(cbn)/2.0.0.0/str)

In two parts, the first is sad and tragic, with a cadenza almost at the beginning; the second ruminant and deep. It disappears in the end towards the high in the solists part, towards the low in the orchestral and towards silence.

Duration: 13' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
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CHF: 34.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 12.-; € 12.-: reduction for violin/piano: sFr. 16.-; € 16.-)
Quatuor de flûtes, M. 547 (1996)

Instrumentation: for four flutes (first with piccolo, and fourth with flute in G)

Mysterious sounds and a elegiac atmosphere outside time, accentuatetd by sparkling outbursts of energy. The use of uncommon chords opens intense sonorous landscapes.

Duration: 9' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 31.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 12.-; € 12.-)
Prélude III (1996)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 3' 00"
Manuscript
Auf die erniedrigende Erhebung und erhebte Niedrigkeit, M. 548 (1997)

Instrumentation: for high voice and piano

Texts: Catharina Regina von Greiffenberg

Conflict between mysticism and human torture. Sedation in the coda of the piano solo.

Duration: 5' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 16.00
Elògio della Nòtte, M. 549 (1997)

Instrumentation: for bass and piano

Texts: Michelangelo Buonarrotti

First dark and tortured, then ruminant and calm. Written especially for the bass voice. The accompaniment is particularly impressive because of its sobriety.

Duration: 8' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
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CHF: 26.00
Trio pour flûte, alto et harpe, M. 569 (1997-1999)

A single movement: funeral-like, slow and melancholic.

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
Lied, M. 551 (1997)

Instrumentation: for soprano saxophone and piano

Very song-like piece accentuating the expressive qualities of the saxophone.

Duration: 6' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 18.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 10.-; € 10.-)
Credo, M.556 (1997)

Instrumentation: for male choir (TTBB)

Modal. Alternating soft passages with hieratic passages.

Duration: 1' 10"
Manuscript
Sonate, M. 553 (1997)

Instrumentation: for violoncello and piano

An epic and dark work with an elegiac movement in the centre part.

Duration: 16' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 34.00
(Seperate parts: sFr. 12.-; €12.-)
Duo, M. 554 (1997)

Instrumentation: for two violas

Accentuates the timbre of the viola. Alternates between passionate, ruminant and energetic passages.

Duration: 12' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 18.00
Al cor di zolfo..., M. 559 (1997)

Instrumentation: for bass and piano

Texts: Michelangelo Buonarrotti

Between passion and reflection. Based on a sonnet by Michelangelo.

Duration: 5' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 16.00
Sonata, M. 566 (1997)

Instrumentation: for pianoforte (can be performed on a modern piano)

Accentuates the clearness of the lower registers of historic pianos - can be performed on modern pianos.

Duration: 8' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
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CHF: 21.00
Je suis l'autre ver de l'autre tombe (1997)

Instrumentation: for medium voice and piano

Texts: Victor Hugo

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Lamentatio Jeremiae Prophetae, M. 562 (1997)

Instrumentation: for mixed choir

In Latin language. Music with rhythmical scansion near to Gregorian music, but chordal. Large phrases and atmosphere of deep collectedness.

Duration: 10' 00"
Manuscript
Lucis Creator optime, M. 563 (1997)

Instrumentation: for children's choir or female choir

In Latin language. Very large phrases, with very pure dissonances and bright consonances.

Duration: 8' 30"
Manuscript
Sonate, M. 560 (1997-1998)

Instrumentation: for viola solo

Three movements: elegiaco, con passione et meditativo.

Duration: 12' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
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CHF: 16.00
Trio à cordes, M. 552 (1997-1998)

Instrumentation: for violin, viola and violoncello

Meditating work. The central part alternates growls of revolt and of resignation, even grief. The appeased end moves off to inner silence. Commission of Pro Helvetia for the Zurich String Trio, which first performed it during August 2000 on the occasion of a tour in India and Sri Lanka.

Duration: 18' 00"
Manuscript
Toccata, M. 566a (1997-1998)

Instrumentation: for celesta

Duration: 8' 00"
Manuscript
Duo pour flûte-alto et guitare, M. 576 (1998)

In three movements. Elegiaco with subtle timbres, presto malinconico, scherzo in mirrored form and estaticamente lento with an immense purety of expression.

Duration: 13' 00"
Editions Rencontres Guitares
CP 115
CH-1630 Bulle
Soliloque, M. 585 (1998)

Instrumentation: for violin solo

Between melancholy and serenity, a work of great inner contemplation.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
Quatuor à cordes, M. 587 (1998-1999)

Comissioned by the Talich Quartet. One single slow movement with equally extreme desolation and expressive density.

Duration: 17' 00"
Manuscript
Sonata a quattro, M. 582 (1998)

Instrumentation: for flute, horn and two trumpets

Subtle and delicate sonorities. Work which articulates itself around perfect consonances, requesting a great purity of intonation.

Duration: 8' 00"
Manuscript
Concerto n. 2, M. 579 (1998)

Instrumentation: for violin and string orchestra (6.6.4.4.1 or 2)

First movement is virtuosic and passionate, the second quiet and ruminant and the third dynamic. The particularly expressive cadenza is at the end of the second movement.

Duration: 19' 00"

SME/EMS
Postfach 7851
CH-6000 Luzern 7
Schweiz
info@musinfo.ch
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CHF: 62.00
(Reduction for piano: sFr. 36.-; € 36.-; violin part: sFr. 18.-; € 18.-)
Trio, M. 573 (1998-1999)

Instrumentation: for alto saxophone, violoncello and piano

2 contrasted movements: the first passionate, ending in distress, and the second meditating, ending in serenity. Simultaneous performance, on February 11th, 2000, during concerts organized by the "Association for the Development of the Classical Saxophone", which commissioned the work, in more than ten cities in Switzerland and abroad.

Duration: 13' 00"
Manuscript
Duo, M. 576 (1998)

Instrumentation: for alto flute and guitar

Duration: 13' 00"
Editions Rencontres Guitares
CP 115
CH-1630 Bulle
Crucifixion, M. 589 (1998)

Instrumentation: for mixed a-cappella choir

Texts: Laurent Mettraux

On a text by the composer, partly inspired by the Gospels. Alternates impressive parts, because of their tension, and Gospel excerpts, where every shade of the text is evoked. first performance by the Chamber Choir of the University of Fribourg during the Festival "Greifswalder Bachwoche" on June 11th, 1999.

Duration: 18' 00"
Manuscript
Erhebt die Stimme, M. 596 (1998)

Instrumentation: for four-part mixed a-cappella choir

Piece with crafty harmonies. Text by Ben Sirach (XLIII 29-30).

Duration: 3' 00"
Manuscript
Devouring time..., M. 581 (1998)

Instrumentation: for tenor and piano

Texts: William Shakespeare

Text: William Shakespeare.

Duration: 4' 00"
Manuscript
Paremboles, M. 580 (1998)

Instrumentation: for flute, clarinet, saxophone (s and a) viola ad lib. and piano (two ro four-handed ad lib.)

Work which might be performed in 6 different versions, according to the principle of the adding or the retrenchment of one or more voices. From granitic to deep emotion, following compositional forms of the Ars antiqua, but with contemporary harmonies.

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
3 Microludes, M. 577, M. 584, M. 599 (1998-1999)

Instrumentation: for soprano sax

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Quatuor à cordes No. 1 (string quartet N° 1) (1998-1999)

Duration: 17' 00"
Manuscript
"Le cocyte", M. 603 (1999)

Instrumentation: for large orchestra (3(2pic).3(ca).3(2bcl).3(cbn).barsx/4.3.3.1/4-5perc/str)

Depicts the icey and disturbing atmosphere of the frozen lake in Dantes 'Divine Comedy'.

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
Concerto n. 3, M. 607 (1999)

Instrumentation: for violin and large orchestra (3(2pic).3(ca).3(bcl).3(cbn).barsx/4.3.3.1/tom-tom/str)

In two movements: the first virtuoso and dramatic, the second elegiac, 'tristamente semplice'.

Duration: 20' 00"
Manuscript
Ludus I (1999)

Instrumentation: for a-cappella children's choir

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Lamento (1999)

Instrumentation: for quartet or ensemble of violoncelli

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
Offrande (1999)

Instrumentation: for orchestra (2.2.2.2/2.2.3.1/2perc/str)

Duration: 15' 00"
Manuscript
Duo pour 2 saxophones-altos, M. 609 (1999-2000)

A piece demanding a special effort in breathing.

Duration: 10' 00"
Manuscript
Duo, M. 598 (1999)

Instrumentation: for flute and clarinet

Work written for the Wiener Klangforum (first performed 1999 in Boswil). Rather virtuoso and complex, including among others quarter tones. Very contrasted, from the serene calm to the pathetic dramatism.

Duration: 9' 00"
Manuscript
Lux Mundi, M. 614 (2000)

Instrumentation: for organ

A composition written in such a manner as to allow it to be performed on various styles of organ. It can be performed during concerts, during the Holy Week Liturgy and on all other occasions. A very meditative piece alternating between dark and light, tension and relaxation. Commissioned by the ‘Europäischer Musikmonat 2001’. Premiered by ten organists from Basel and surrounding area during the Holy Week in 2001.

Duration: 22' 00"
Manuscript
Duo (1996-2001)

Instrumentation: for violin and violoncello

Duration: 9' 00"
Manuscript
Mass for Male A-cappella Choir, M. 616 (2000-2001)

Instrumentation: for male choir (TTBB)

The liturgical text is in French. This piece is accessible to amateur choirs and fits particularly well in the liturgy.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
"La plus belle des lumières", M. 611 (2000)

Instrumentation: for mixed a-cappella choir (eight-part)

Texts: Rigveda (indisch)

Text by the composer based on the Rig Veda. The meaningful harmonies swell in two immense waves from the night, from the peaceful and sinister to the triumphant arrival of light.

Duration: 15' 00"
Manuscript
Quintette à vents, M. 612 (2000)

Instrumentation: for flute (also piccolo, alto flute), oboe, clarinet, horn and bassoon

Every instrument is presented in a large variety of colours. A work which alternates between energetic, melancholic, mysterious, sad or contemplative.

Duration: 16' 00"
Manuscript
Septett, M. 620 (2001)

Instrumentation: for flute, clarinet, horn, bassoon, violin, violoncello and piano

This septet has been especially written for the ‘Mittelland’ ensemble. The tragic and disturbing, mysterious and melancholic are mixed in five consecutive movements.



Duration: 18' 00"
Manuscript
Déploration, M.621 (2001)

Instrumentation: for piano

This short and austere piece highlights fragments of desolated melodies, be it in dialogue or in canon form, and the muffled hammering of a very low chord. Commissioned by the Association Jeune Musique, for the 1st International Piano Competition in Fribourg.

Duration: 1' 30"
Manuscript
Etude rythmique No. 1, M. 622 (2001)

Instrumentation: for piano solo

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
Etude rythmique No. 2, M. 623 (2001)

Instrumentation: for piano solo

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Etude rythmique No. 3, M. 624 (2001)

Instrumentation: for piano solo

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
String Quintet, M.618 (2001-2002)

Instrumentation: for two violins, two violas and violoncello

Commissioned by the Zurich String Quintet this work was premiered during a tour to Finland and Lithuania in July 2003. A large, slow, oppressed movement from which emerges a sort of line based on an implacable ostinato.



Duration: 17' 00"
Manuscript
Le Nom Caché, M.625 (2001-2002)
Oratorium

Instrumentation: for four soli (SATB), mixed choir, violoncello solo, two pianos and percussion (six percussionists

Libretto by the composer after texts by Grégoire de Nazianze, Rainer Maria Rilke an Inca hymn to Viracocha, Ibn ul-‘Arabi, Angelus Silesius, Proclus, Toukaram, Hallaj, Pushpadanta, and Lao Tse amongst others. Commissioned by the Swiss National Exposition (‘Expo 02’), this work is based on texts which underline the fear and then the reassurance of human beings faced with the mystery of a hidden and nameless God. It shows, in succession, diverse human sentiments: questioning, rebellion, despair, doubt, accepting the limits of human understanding and contemplative silence.

Duration: 48' 00"
Manuscript
Double Concerto, M. 629 (2002-2005)

Instrumentation: for pipa, violin and orchestra (2*.2*.2*.2*/2.0.0.0/2perc/str)

A work written to celebrate the famous pipa (chinese lute) played Yang Jing and the violinist Boris Livschitz. In three movements: the first one alternates between mysterious and energetic passages, the second is meditative and the third, Eruptivo, contains an important cadenza for the soloists.

Duration: 21' 00"
Manuscript
Quintet for Flute and Strings, M.627 (2002-2003)

Instrumentation: for flute, violoncello, two violas and violoncello

This work was written for Alexandre Magnin and the Janacek Quartet and developed out of a dream-like nostalgia. Equilibrium was obtained in the sonority of the quintet by the use of a second viola instead of a second violin. “This quintet contains all the human sentiments” (A. Magnin).

Duration: 14' 00"
Manuscript
Concerto for organ and orchestra, M.628 (2002-2003)

Instrumentation: for large organ and orchestra (2(pic).2(ca).2(bcl).2(cbn)/2.2.2.0/3perc/str)

World premiere at the inauguration of the Lausanne Cathedral’s large organ in December 2003. This piece is alternatingly virtuoso, ruminant, passionate or majestic. The organ communicates with the single instruments or is in opposition to the orchestra.

Duration: 18' 00"
Manuscript
Les Serrures à Secret, M.634 (2003-2005)

Instrumentation: for bass solo, actors, choir and instrumental ensemble

Libretto by Michel Gremaud. This work explores the myth of Hephaestus set in our time. The instrumental ensemble is divided into different groups, amongst which are a wind quintet and a percussion ensemble.

Duration: 95' 00"
Manuscript
Trio for Clarinet, Violoncello and Piano, M.632 (2003)

Commissioned by the ‘Trio Avalon’ this work was world premiered in April 2004 at the 2 days & 2 nights of modern music festival in Odessa and performed during a tour in the Ukraine. In three movements: where the lyricism of the clarinet and the cello are opposed to the implacable rhythms of the piano; scherzo furioso followed by a calm ending. This work is inspired by, amongst others, elements of klezmer music.

Duration: 14' 00"
Manuscript
Complainte, M.633 (2003)

Instrumentation: for violin solo

A composition commissioned by Shlomo Mintz for the International Violin Competition in Sion, 2003. Between rage and resignation, lamentation and fury.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
Reflets, M.630 (2003-2004)

Instrumentation: for violin and percussion

The violin and percussion respond, imitate, interpellate, influence, attract or repel but always mirror each other. The percussion part demands numerous timbres and playing techniques.

Duration: 12' 00"
Manuscript
Danses Suisses, M.635 (2003-2004)

Instrumentation: for four-handed piano

This series of six dances consists of the following parts: Ländler, Coraules, Polka, Galop des Nains, Totentanz and Danse du Sauvage. The first three are inspired by Swiss folkloric themes whereas the last three are inspired more freely with reference to traditional Swiss elements

Duration: 15' 00"
Manuscript
Appel I et Appel II, M.637 et 638 (2004)

Instrumentation: for wind instrument (wood or brass)

Appel means 'call'. Both Appels have been composed within the context of the ORB_IT project of the World New Music Days 2004. These two short pieces, like miniature fanfares, are written so they can be played by any wind instrument (woodwind or brass).

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
Veilleur, où en est la nuit?, M.640 (2004-2005)

Instrumentation: for organ

The title "Veilleur, où en est la nuit?" ("Watchman, what of the night?") is taken from the book of Isaiah. Between the anguish of the dark night and the hope inspired by the watchman that the day shall rise again.

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Attente, M.636 (2004)

Instrumentation: for saxophone, violoncello, piano and percussion

This is a successively passive and resigned waiting or an active and revolutionary expectation. The saxophonist plays three instruments successively: baritone, soprano and alto.

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
Microlude, M. 639 (2004)

Instrumentation: for violoncello

This short piece, ordered on the occasion of the inaugural concert of the Compagnie CH.AU, has an elliptical and enigmatic character.

Duration: 1' 40"
Manuscript
Serenata in chiaroscuro, M.650 (2005-2006)

Instrumentation: for organ

This work was commissioned for the 20th Concert Season of the Orgelserenaden of Berne-Bümpliz. In one single movement the piece repeatedly goes from brightness to obscurity and vice versa. It is elliptical and interrogative. The principal, hesitant theme alternates with rich harmonies.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
Alléluia I et Alléluia II, M.641 et 644 (2005)

Instrumentation: for male choir (TTBB)

Two simple hallelujahs, the first one full and serene for 4 voices, the second one limpid for 2 voices.

Duration: 1' 00"
Manuscript
Suite pour quintette à vents, M.642 (2005-2006)

Instrumentation: for flute (also piccolo and alto flute in G), oboe (also English horn), Bb clarinet (also small Eb clarinet, Bb bass clarinet and clarinet in A ad libitum), bassoon (also contrabassoon) and horn

This suite, taken from the scenic work "Les Serrures à Secret", consists of four movements and two short interludes. The first movement is mysterious and almost hypnotic, the second ironical, grotesque and mocking, the third first grave and solemn, then progressively more appeased, and the fourth, first like a dance on obsessive rhythms, ends on a touch of nostalgia. The two interludes surrounding the second movement are in the spirit of the Musiques d'ameublement by Satie. The full score serves also as separate parts for each instrumentalist.

Duration: 18' 00"
Manuscript
Le Vent blesse les Branches des Cerisiers, M.645 (2005)

Instrumentation: for mixed, a-cappella choir

The text of this song is inspired by a number of haikus by Saigyo, a Japanese Zen monk of the 12th century. The music is simple and appeased, a little melancholic. Relatively simple to sing.

Duration: 3' 00"
Manuscript
Puissance, Honneur, Louange et Gloire, M.646 (2005)

Instrumentation: for male choir (TTBB)

Entry Hymn of praise to the Holy Trinity. Refrain with full and solemn harmonies and three ad libitum verses for one voice accompanied by the chords of the other voices of the choir.

Duration: 4' 00"
Manuscript
Le Sommeil de la Raison produit des monstres, M.647 (2005)

Instrumentation: for arpeggione solo

After an engraving taken from the Caprichos by Goya. This short, concentrated piece installs a mysterious and elliptic climate of expectation and fear.

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Stimmungen, M.648 (2005-2006)

Instrumentation: for 4 violoncelli

The five movements of this work, a commission for Liestal's Viva Cello Festival, have very contrasting atmospheres. The first movement is a contrapuntal appassionato; the second a melancholy piece; the third a macabre and fear-inspiring movement. The fourth movement is wrathful and bases itself on quadruple chords and clusters; the last movement is dreamy, with suspended melodies and harmonic glissandi.

Duration: 13' 00"
Manuscript
Suite pour trois flûtes traversières, M.649 (2005-2006)

Instrumentation: for three flutes (also piccolo, alto flute in g and bass flute)

This Suite is made of four movements, each of which puts into light a different instrument. The first movement, with alto flute, is mysterious and of changing mood. The second, with piccolo, is spontaneous, skipping along and almost carefree. The third, very serene, is near to a Zen meditation and puts into light the bass flute. The last movement, written for the three flutes in C, is voluble and dynamic.

Duration: 13' 00"
Manuscript
Plus près de toi que tu ne l'es toi-même, M.651 (2006)

Instrumentation: for vocal ensemble (small choir consisting of 8 soloists or eight-voice choir)

Text by the composer after texts from different spiritual traditions. It has been written in 2006 for the Foundation for Universal Sacred Music of New York, commission awarded through competition. The work alternates tensions and relaxations, as much on the agogical as on the harmonic level.

Duration: 13' 00"
Manuscript
Émergences, M.652 (2006)

Instrumentation: for violin and accordion

This work was commissioned by the Festival des Musicales d'Auberive (France) and written for Marianne Piketty and Pascal Contet. This work is a little enigmatic, based on threatening - even stormy clusters - and impassive tritones on the one hand and dreamy, lyrical passages on the other. The title can evoke the emergence of forces from the subconscious, the emergence of physical or meteorological phenomena, or even the emergence of sonorous events, for instance the pianissimo apparition of the violin under a forte of the accordion.

Duration: 7' 00"
Manuscript
Les Espaces Insoupçonnés, M.653 (2006)

Instrumentation: for violoncello solo

This work begins in an elegiac manner and is followed by a wild passage. A lyrical melody leads to the central, ecstatic passage, which uses various kinds of vibratos in the high and the highest tones of the instrument. Leaving these "espaces insoupçonnés", the work progressively returns to a dramatic and bitter mood, like a return to earth after an out-of-time vision.

Duration: 11' 00"
Manuscript
Le Tombeau de Ravel, M.654 (2006)

Instrumentation: for tenor saxophone, bassoon, violin, violoncello, piano, guitar and percussion

This work has been written for a project by the Compagnie CH.AU, for which six composers have each written one movement corresponding to one of the parts of the Tombeau de Couperin by Ravel. This piece is inspired by the Menuet of the Tombeau de Couperin and has a principally elegiac, tender and nostalgic character. It has also been scored for a chamber orchestra.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
Le Tombeau de Ravel, M.654b (2006-2007)

Instrumentation: for chamber orchestra (2.2.2.2/2.0.0.0/perc/str)

This work has been written for a project by the Compagnie CH.AU, for which six composers have each written one movement corresponding to one of the parts of the Tombeau de Couperin by Ravel. This piece is inspired by the Menuet of the Tombeau de Couperin and has a principally elegiac, tender and nostalgic character. The original version of this work was written for an ensemble of 7 instruments.

Duration: 6' 00"
Manuscript
Petite Suite de Danses, M.655 (2006-2007)

Instrumentation: for violin and piano

This little dance suite consists of four movements (Polka, Galop des Nains, Totentanz - Danse Macabre - et Danse du Sauvage). It is a transcription of four Swiss dances originally written for four-handed piano.

Duration: 8' 00"
Manuscript
C'est à l'eau du ruisseau qu'on nettoie sa pierre à encre, M. 661 (2007)

Instrumentation: for pipa solo

Duration: 4' 00"
Manuscript
La Mort sur un Cheval Pâle, m. 662 (2007)

Instrumentation: for orchestra (pic.2.2.2.2.cbn/4.4.3.1/2perc/str)

Duration: 10' 00"
Manuscript
Cyprès, M.660 (2007)

Instrumentation: for string quartet

This short work has been written for the occasion of the first performance of the complete song cycle "Cypresses" by Dvorak, out of which Dvorak himself had transcribed 12 of the melodies for string quartet. The work has a nostalgic character and uses the melody taken from the 15th song of the cycle, which Dvorak did not transcribe for quartet. This piece was first performed by the Leipziger String Quartet during the Ljubljana 2007 Festival.

Duration: 3' 20"
Manuscript
Cloches du Crépuscule et de l'Aube, M.657 (2007)

Instrumentation: for glockenspiel and tubular bells

This piece is written for an 8-note glockenspiel (c, d, e, f, g, a, b flat, b natural) and can be transposed according to the tonality of each glockenspiel. It can also be played on tubular bells. It is based on thematic cells, some of which use semitone frictions.

Duration: 3' 40"
Manuscript
Quelle terre est vide de toi?, M.659 (2007)

Instrumentation: for high voice and piano

This song is a transcription of a passage from the oratorio "Le Nom Caché" (The Hidden Name). The text, by the composer, is inspired by the mystic poems of sufi sage Hallaj; it is a meditation on the unknowable nature of the Divine.

Duration: 3' 00"
Manuscript
Inventio, M. 669 (2008)

Instrumentation: for 2 oboes (or oboe d'amour, 2 English horns, 2 heckelphones)

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Quintette, M. 668 (2008)

Instrumentation: for clarinet and string quartet

Duration: 13' 00"
Manuscript
Sonate, M. 671 (2009)

Instrumentation: for guitar solo

Manuscript
Stèles, M. 670 (2009)

Instrumentation: for piano

After 5 poems by Victor Segalen.

Duration: 14' 00"
Manuscript
Choral-Variationen über das Weihnachtslied "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her", M. 672 (2009)

Instrumentation: for four-part choir and orchestra (2.2.ca.0.2.cbn/0.3.3.0/hp/va.db)

Duration: 16' 00"
Manuscript
Prélude, M. 674 (2009)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 2' 00"
Manuscript
Traces gravées dans le sable, M. 673 (2009)

Instrumentation: for piano

Duration: 12' 00"
Manuscript
Offrande funèbre en hommage à Bach, M. 675 (2010)

Instrumentation: for flute, violin, violoncello and organ

Duration: 5' 00"
Manuscript
Discography
Bibliography
Gottstein, Björn: Swiss Piano (CD ZHdK). Piano Works by Emmanuel Nunes and Rudolf Kelterborn (CD Guild), in: Dissonanz 115 (2011), S. 89-90 [Internet]
Laurent Mettraux, hrsg. von Pro Helvetia (Contemporary Swiss Composers), Zürich 2001
Sansonnens, Bernard: Laurent Mettraux: La quête d'une expression equilibrée et profonde, in: Revue musicale de Suisse Romande 1 (1000), S. 55-57


Last updated: 2021-06-24 11:35:36