Maat strikt is an open score, meaning that any number and type of instruments capable of playing what is written, can take part in its performance. The score is written in C, sounding exactly as written (without any octave transpositions). It is laid out on five lines: 1. solo; 2. treble instruments; 3. bass instruments (treble and bass together may also be doubled as a first Continuo Keyboard); 4. treble instruments; 5. bass instruments (treble and bass together may also be doubled as
a second Continuo Keyboard). Lines 4 and 5 are slightly easier to play than lines 2 and 3. A minimum of two players are needed for each of lines 2, 3, 4 and 5. The solo part is for a treble instrument, for example: violin, flute, oboe, clarinet, soprano saxophone. The part is relatively difficult, requiring a professional quality performer. The same soloist may
play throughout, or two or more soloists may share. From the fourth bar of figure 8 until figure 12 line 4 is to be played by a succession of solo players. In section III lines 2 and 4 play together, and lines 3 and 5 play together – to prevent the texture becoming too heavy please divide the material between different players.
There are four sections, lasting c.4 minutes each: Allegro – Largo – Allegro – Largo, and short breaks between the sections. My preference would be for a small ensemble, and a sound that is as bright and transparent as possible, something like that needed for Vivaldi.

Michael Finnissy