running the edgE for 2 flutes and percussive piano

“running the edgE” was commissioned by flutists Claudia Anderson and Jill Felber (known as the duo, ZAWA!). I’ve been friends with both players for quite some time, so when they asked for a work I immediately thought of the “sound world” that makes up this piece. Both flutists have a great “edge” to their sound (not to mention blazing technique) and both always seem to be living their lives running on the edge. They were expecting me to write a piece with extended flute techniques so I did the logical thing and wrote a work with extended piano techniques. This piece highlights their energetic personalities and playing styles, and reflects a little of our frantic world. —Jennifer Higdon