Étude IX - In the book IN ADORATION OF THE EARTH : A FOX IN THE SUN,

composed and performed by Kathryn J. Potter

This étude practices multi phonics, quarter tones, pitch bending, adding color and expression to this portrait of a fox.
The multi phonics are notated as an open circle on the 3rd line of the staff and with a descending, unattached stem. Suggested fingerings of multi phonics serve to provide both education of multi phonic fingerings and well suited multi phonic choices for the placement harmonically for that moment in the phrase.

With the understanding that all oboes, reeds and conditions vary, it is simply a suggestion.

Reviewing quarter tones introduced in étude VI CROW - with fingerings listed there, Measure 23 calls for a G a quarter tone flat, and measure 25 calls for a G a quarter tone sharp.

I LOVE foxes. So beautiful, mysterious, wild, crafty, adaptable, graceful. They positively flit, pause, glide. Hmmm possibly a favorite transfiguration animal choice of fairies? They seem to live in their own world, too unique to be pigeon holed as canine or feline, in some ways transcending feline and canine qualities while being related.

A word to the wise. When studying/performing, please keep to the written rhythm to the best of your ability. You know, I really put a lot of energy and thought into it. This work is not intended to be played freely at all! Ironic as it may seem, by adhering to the exact rhythmic ratios, the piece sounds freer! The fox after all is not a domesticated animal - at least not the one I am portraying! Therefor a feel of boxed in or metered, would not serve…and yet, this creature behaves in patterns, so there are patterns. This creature is free to follow his/her instincts and so the illusion of sounding free is crafted craft fully like the fox is crafty!

I hope you will enjoy. K.J.P.
P.S. (SKYPE lessons available.)