BESTIARIUS
for Alto / Mezzo-Soprano and Ensemble
 
A Vivid, Inventive, and Satirical Vocal Chamber Work
Bestiarius (1995) by Lior Navok is an 11-minute work for alto or mezzo-soprano and ensemble, setting three humorous and imaginative 'animal' poems by Dan Pagis. Inspired by medieval bestiaries—books depicting real and mythical creatures—the piece contrasts the playful text with bold, colorful musical writing. Scored for flute/piccolo, clarinet, bassoon, violin, two percussionists, and harpsichord, it offers performers a vivid and inventive addition to the modern Hebrew vocal chamber repertoire for alto and ensemble.
 
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About the Music
Bestiarius is an 11‑minute chamber work for alto or mezzo‑soprano and ensemble, setting three poems by Dan Pagis inspired by the medieval bestiary tradition. Pagis’s texts blend observations of real and imagined creatures with sharp humor and subtle satire, offering a modern reinterpretation of the ancient genre. The music responds to this playful, sometimes ironic tone by creating contrasts between text and sound—at times amplifying the humor, at times undercutting it. The unusual instrumentation, including harpsichord and two percussionists, adds color and character to each creature’s portrait. It is suitable for professional singers and advanced conservatory‑level ensembles comfortable with contemporary chamber writing and rhythmic precision. The work is ideal for programs featuring animal‑themed works, modern Hebrew poetry, or contemporary chamber‑vocal repertoire with theatrical or satirical elements, driven by a colorful, rhythmically active style and quick shifts in character.
 
Program Notes
The Bestiarius (Bestiary) was a common book during the Middle Ages. It contained illustrations of animals, some real and some imaginary. For example, the phoenix was introduced through the Bestiaries. In his Bestiarius, Israeli poet Dan Pagis introduces six "animal" poems, from which I chose three. The text, filled with humor, gave me the opportunity to compose music that often creates a bold contrast to the written word.
 
Specifications
Duration: 11 minutes
Year Composed: 1995
Instrumentation: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano, Flute/Piccolo, Clarinet, Bassoon, Violin, Percussion (2), and Harpsichord
Text: Dan Pagis
Language: Hebrew (Score in Latin Characters)
 
Product and Rental Information
Performance Materials: Available for rental. Performers must fill out the Music Rental Form to obtain performance scores and parts.
Study Scores: Available for instant purchase and download.
Hard Copy (Study Score).
Condition: New
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