Snare drum

Inachus, the river god of Argos, had a beautiful daughter named Io. She served Hera, wife of Zeus, as a priestess. Zeus fell in love with her, making Hera jealous. She turned Io into a white heifer. However, with Zeus’ help, Io was able to return to... Read more

The two main organizational elements that form the basis of this work are a rhythmic motive and a tone row that mirrors around its middle. Premiered in September 1982 by the Swede Roger Carlsson with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, this work has... Read more

KÍM means germ or embryo and the idea is roughly to start on something simple which then gradually grows and takes on a new form, like a plant. The work is a continuation of Askell Masson's exploitation of the possibilities of the snare drum as a... Read more

Examples of typical dance rhythms which have followed the drum through the years as well as typical Icelandic folk songs/danses. Read more