Tabuh Pacific is a sort of concerto for two orchestras, each of which takes turns to display the types of sounds with which it is traditionally associated - the gamelan bright and energetic or smooth and flowing, the orchestra-heavy and 'romantic' or transparent and static. The ensembles take turns in the spotlight before coming together in a crazed romp at the end of the work.
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.
