The foundation of this five and a half minute work is a recurring odd-metered theme derived from an altered version of the super locrian scale, also known as the ‘altered' or ‘Ravel' scale. The altered version of this scale consists of a flattened second, fourth and fifth scale degree of the super locrian scale, along with the added flattened seventh scale degree which appears in the work's recurring theme. Farr has chosen this scale, also associated with French Impressionism, resulting in an intriguing work that reflects the exoticism of Indonesia, from which the word Bintang comes, while maintaining the distinctive dynamic style of the composer.
Gareth Farr is an indisputably colourful figure in New Zealand music. And whether scored for percussion duet or the resources of two large orchestras, Farr's music reflects his personality – bold, brash, or delicate and sensuous, but inevitably, immediately, engaging. Rhythmic elements of his compositions can be linked to the complex and exciting rhythms of Rarotongan log drum ensembles, Balinese gamelan and other percussion music of the Pacific Rim. In addition to his music for the concert chamber, Farr has written music for dance, theatre and television.
