One Mountain (2016)
One Mountain
Flute, Clarinet/Bass clarinet, Violin, Cello, Crotales/Vibraphone, Piano// 11 minutes
2 movements
I - Meditation
II - Caprice
Premiere: March, 2016
Commissioned by the American Modern Ensemble
Program note:
One Mountain is a tribute to Mount Monadnock, an iconic and revered feature of the New England region. Known as the Mountain that Stands Alone, the word "Monadnock" refers to a hill or ridge that stands in isolation. A hike to the top generally lasts the better part of an afternoon and offers breathtaking views along the way. At the top, the hiker will find bare-faced rock with a full panorama
of the valley below. On a clear day, a keen eye can see all the way to Boston. The work is comprised of two movements, one rather figurative and the other more literal in its interpretation of the mountain. "Meditation" is a slow-moving, introspective contemplation of the grand mountain's reverence, its history and importance, its constancy through time. An energetic second movement, "Caprice" takes us through the ascent to Mount Monadnock's bare-faced peak – starting with a rocky, forested trail, reaching a preliminary vista, and eventually clearing the tree line. After reaching the summit and enjoying the view for a bit, the hikers descend while once rising melodies begin to fall. Finally, the sun starts to set and the hikers are able to reflect on a successful day.
PURCHASE SCORE
