Inspired by Toru Takemitsu and Leo Brouwer, Eight Octatonic Studies features eight short studies for classical or electric guitar. Each study explores the expressive potential of a single octatonic collection (also referred to as an octatonic scale or diminished scale).

Studies I, IV and VI feature ostinato patterns that support evocative melodies. Study II is an exercise in octatonic counterpoint and imitation. Studies III and VII feature octatonic scalar motives punctuated by dyads and seventh chords. Study V simulates a tonal context, implying the key of D flat major. Finally, Study VIII explores the intervallic relationships inherent in an octatonic collection. Includes preface, 9 pages sheet music

Nancarrow's music for player piano with .acrobatic complexity .that sounds .hardly performable has been known for more than four decades. The traditional notation is replaced by the accurate manual punching of individual holes in player piano roles, thus enabling multi-part sounds and rhythmic counterpoints in irrational relations which could never be played so accurately by human performers.
Fortunately, Nancarrow's less complex studies are again and again arranged for a wide variety of live instrumentation. The arrangement for two pianos by the renowned British composer and conductor Thomas Ad�.s (*1971) presents the ideal opportunity for every experienced pianist to not only listen to the studies but to play them as well.

Song List: 1. Das walt mein Gott 2. Ist Gott mein Schold und Helfersmann 3. Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah 4. Freu dich sehr, o meine Seele 5. Home and Family 6. Herr Jesu Christ, du hochstes Gut 7. Jesus, Thou Art Mine Forever 8. O Ewigkeit, du Donnerwort 9. The Newborn Children 10. Nun ruhen alle Walder 11. Thou Knowest Lord 12. Thy Word Like Gentle Dews 13. Werde Munter 14. O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden 15. Repentance and Faith