HAMLET'S MILL

Biagio Putignano: HAMLET'S MILL (2025) for trombone (edited version adapted for bass trombone by Jakob Grimm)
Edition Gravis, Brühl. eg 3224
Style and general character:
Starting from repeated notes, the composer explores predominantly noise-like and indeterminate sonic events. Frequent changes between the instrument's registers serve to create musical contrasts that are presented with considerable dynamic restraint.
Form and structure:
This single-movement composition follows an arch-like trajectory and is based on several musical and gestural ideas associated with specific playing techniques. These ideas recur throughout the work, are developed further, and become increasingly concentrated as the music builds towards a climax.
Notation, duration and level of difficulty:
Extended techniques are indicated by special symbols and further specified by verbal instructions. The notation requires a certain amount of familiarisation.
Duration: approx. 6 minutes
Level of difficulty: very difficult
Comment:
The composition is expressly intended to be played without the tuning slide, resulting in fundamentally new combinations of slide positions that differ considerably from standard playing practice. Dealing with these unusual requirements calls for a high degree of experience with contemporary music.

Stefan Drees, in: nmz 10/26, p. 8. Reproduced by kind permission.