Farr's slow-burning Waipoua (1994) is suitable for clarinettists wishing to highlight their expressivity, particularly in the clarinet's sweet upper register. Farr writes: "This is an exploration of the lyrical and emotional capabilities of my favourite wind instrument. It is also a musical evocation of a memorable visit to the Waipoua State Forest, with its healing air, cool green light, delicate echoing sounds, and the overwhelming sight of Tane-Mahuta, the giant kauri tree."
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.
