The internal dissonance of Gem's opening theme sets the work's mysterious tone. Contemplative rubato wanderings, predominantly along the black keys of the piano, periodically reach into the instrument's upper register in short flourishes of notes. Occasionally the work takes time to dwell there, releasing notes in delicate droplets, particularly affecting when decorating the work's searching theme. Momentum gathers with accelerated ascending runs that lead to a climax of tumbling high register figures in contrary motion with the left hand. From the sustain pedal atmosphere of the climax emerges two low, solemn chords that signal the work's end, though vestiges of mystery remain.
Gem was commissioned by Nicola Melville, with funding from Creative New Zealand, in memory of Melville's teacher Judith Clark (1931-2014). Farr revised the work in early 2017, adding several measures that expand on existing material in the middle of the work.
Nicola has been a friend and colleague since 1989, and I have written many piano pieces for her. This commission is particularly special to both of us being in memory of her wonderful teacher Judith Clark. Judith was a mentor to Nicola, and a constant supporter of me and my career. This piece is a memory of Judith's warm loving nature, and a word that she often used to describe her favourite little piano pieces – gem.
