Perfume takes inspiration from Patrick Süskind’s literary classic Das Parfum which follows the life of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille. Ironically, whilst possessing extraordinary olfactory senses, Grenouille has no scent of his own and is socially ostracised for this. The remainder of the novel follows Grenouille’s macabre and morally ambiguous journey to feel like he fits in, ultimately leading to his demise.

Each movement of Perfume depicts a significant period of Grenouille’s life: the unbalanced and repetitious rhythmic momentum of Movement I (The Tick) depicts Grenouille’s time spent working in a tannery and perfumery, honing his skills and waiting patiently for opportunities. Inspired by the third movement of Bartok's 4th String Quartet, Movement II (The Volcano) is expressively reflective and tranquil, portraying a period of self-imposed isolation where Grenouille lives on an isolated volcano. Movement III (Hunting) is underpinned by a rhythmic driving force, representing Grenouille’s pursuit of his grotesque goals.

II. The Volcano

Dark Matters

Master

Thomas Gray is an emerging Australian composer. Currently based in Adelaide, where he is completing his undergraduate studies at the Elder Conservatorium of Music, Thomas is originally from North Queensland. Thomas’ composition teachers at the Elder Conservatorium of Music so far have included Charles Bodman Rae, Anne Cawrse and Dylan Crismani, he has also studied composition and clarinet with Dr Mark Smith.

II. The Volcano

Thomas Gray - Composer

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