Ambitious? This Composer’s New Year’s Resolution is to Write a Perfect Cadence in 2023
Earlier today, 32-year-old Montréal composer Olivier Mathieu announced his New Year’s resolution to write a perfect cadence in 2023.
“People often say that perfection is unattainable,” said Mathieu, “and that’s where they’re wrong. Have I ever written something perfect? No. But is it possible? Of course! My cadence can and will be completely parfaite.”
New Year’s resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep. Friends and colleagues of Mathieu are wary of whether he will follow through, especially in light of his long history of deception.
“It’s just such a spur of the moment decision, and I’m not sure if he’s as serious about this cadence as he’s letting on,” shared pianist Alex Lefèvre, a frequent performer of Mathieu’s works. “Full disclosure: Olivier is not known in his personal and professional life for his . . . transparence. I’ve been deceived by him before – I’ll believe it when I see it.”
Others are concerned about the quality of the cadence that might materialize.
“Sure, maybe Oli will write a perfect cadence after all,” speculated the composer’s sister and acclaimed soprano Caroline Mathieu. “But will it be authentic? Because I think that’s toujours the most important element of musical communication, no?”
Despite the outsider doubts clouding his ambition, Mathieu’s determination has not wavered.
“I realize that this is not a petite undertaking,” he acknowledged. “This will be a major resolution. But I’m inspired by the challenge, and I fully intend to achieve it.”
Today’s Stay Tuned interview with Mathieu was conducted via Zoom, as he is currently visiting family in the Picardie region of France.