Arc-en-ciel

Leclerq's Arc-en-ciel is written for four standard instruments and, on first viewing, appears to be rather dull; closer inspection reveals a work that is both interesting and quite mesmerising. It' s restless harmonically and one is never quite sure where each phrase is leading. The piece begins harmlessly enough with three of the four instruments playing a repeated quarter - note rhythm so ensemble here (and throughout much of the piece) will need to be tight if the required effect is to be produced. Later in the work eighthnote melodies appear from nowhere before a climax of crashing discords is reached. Players of around the Grade 5 standard would be able to cope with the work's demands, as it is technically and rhythmically straightforward. Don't let this put you off giving it a try. The sturdy, well-produced publication - like other editions in the Oz guitar series - supplies a score and separate parts. The latter has possible page-turns but each player turning an A3 sheet in performance would be decidedly distracting, particularly in music of this nature. (Raymond Burley, Classical Guitar Magazine, January 2002)