fan-shaped phrases

Dutilleux's signature compositional device — a melodic or figural pattern that expands outward from a central note in both directions symmetrically, like an opening fan, creating an expanding arc that radiates upward and downward simultaneously. The device first appears prominently in the third movement of the Piano Sonata Op.1 and recurs throughout his output. It generates an impression of resonance and spaciousness even in dense textures, and is closely related to Dutilleux's preoccupation with the acoustic resonance of instruments.

Fan-shaped phrases should open out with a natural sense of growth, as if the sound is expanding into space. Do not rush the outer voices — let the extremes of register ring. Dutilleux is very precise about pedalling in these passages because the resonance of each note feeding into the next is the point, not just the melodic outline.