Be Kind to the Trees (2022)
For String Quartet and Vibraphone
Program Notes:
"Be Kind to the Trees" was a title conceived for more than a year prior to writing this work. The old adage that a tree falling in forest does not make a sound unless one is there to hear it feels poignant as an anecdote for the trials and tribulations many suffer throughout their lives. Not programmatic but alluding to a story, this work weaves simple melody underneath sustained harmonics; stoic facade over great duress.
This work is designed to be performed as a quartet with bowed vibraphone; however it would work splendidly in any number of small chamber strings ensembles. Take care to preserve the soloistic nature of musical lines (in chamber settings, feel free to create solo lines or tutti where appropriate for your performers) and be flexible with a great degree of rubato.
"Be Kind to the Trees" was a title conceived for more than a year prior to writing this work. The old adage that a tree falling in forest does not make a sound unless one is there to hear it feels poignant as an anecdote for the trials and tribulations many suffer throughout their lives. Not programmatic but alluding to a story, this work weaves simple melody underneath sustained harmonics; stoic facade over great duress.
This work is designed to be performed as a quartet with bowed vibraphone; however it would work splendidly in any number of small chamber strings ensembles. Take care to preserve the soloistic nature of musical lines (in chamber settings, feel free to create solo lines or tutti where appropriate for your performers) and be flexible with a great degree of rubato.