Lux Perpetua – Chamber Orchestra

Lux Perpetua (2009) for chamber orchestra [1 1 1 1 – 2 2 0 0, timp. and strings], prize and premiere by the Ars Nova Chamber Orchestra on February 3, 2013, in Washington, D.C.– 10’00”

In Lux Perpetua, the central idea revolves around the power of divine, everlasting light. The Latin title comes from the opening of the Requiem Mass that translates as “Give them eternal rest and may everlasting light (Lux perpetua) shine upon them.” I envision everlasting light as powerful protection, but also as the light that shines on our imper- fections and faults. In the latter sense, it is a harsh reminder of human weakness. I have tried to capture both concepts in this piece of traditional program music. Several elements compete in the opening section. The woodwinds opening motive is a descending four-note pattern that expands into a larger phrase in imitation. If one were to assign a role to this motive, it would be a plea for mercy. Meanwhile, the strings repeatedly build a dissonant pyramid of sound, getting louder with each repetition, suggesting the power of everlasting light. The brass players use groups of five repeated notes, perhaps to signify a nagging sense of guilt.  The silence following this section is broken with new material that is more melodic and reassuring. Within this section there is the sense of peace through forgiveness and of mounting joy. Gradually, the opening statement returns with elements of the new melodic material still in evidence. In the end, it is the powerful protection of everlasting light that carries the day.

Moderate Difficulty

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To see a performance of the work click here.