Alfred Schnittke (1934-1998)
Autograph manuscript graphic score signed (on the title, 'A. Schnittke') for 'Cantus perpetuus' for keyboard, solo percussion and four percussionists, 1973/75
A striking graphic score for this work which presents infinite improvisational possibilities.

In Russian. In black ink and coloured felt tips, autograph title and 2 pages, 311 x 244mm, bifolium, the score across the inner two pages, 18-stave paper.

Provenance:
(1) Sotheby's, 20 November 2014, lot 185.

(2) Schøyen Collection, MS 5528.

The theme for the 'Cantus perpetuus' is notated on a single stave at the upper right-hand, while the body of the score comprises a geometric arrangement of twelve 35-note segments on two-stave systems, arranged in an oval pattern within an outline of five coloured lines connected to each of the 12 theme variants, central rhombic figure with internal crossing lines also in five colours; a key in Russian at upper left noting that the red, green, blue and yellow lines represent 'polyphony', 'melody', 'rhythm' and 'harmony'.

This graphic score is the only written form for the work, and is intentionally open to differing interpretations by the performers. It was first performed in Moscow on 14 December 1975, a performance which Schnittke himself regarded as definitive. An orchestral version followed in 1981.