Passages – song cycle for soprano and piano

Passages – The four songs in this cycle reflect various stages of life – the confidence of the young adult, the fear of the very young when confronted with nature’s violence, the love of a mother for a newborn child, and contemplation of death and the hereafter.  “In Place” uses tone clusters and syncopation in the piano to denote a certain swagger. This is reinforced by scat singing between lines of the poem. Here is a person of faith, confident life is both fun and well worth living.  “All in a Dream” conveys a mother’s attempts to calm a child frightened by thunder. It also conveys a deep respect for the power of nature. Throughout, the piano acts as the thunder itself, rumbling and raging.  “Canzone” is a lullaby for a newborn daughter.  “On My Shining Hour” expresses the hope that one’s death will occur in a quiet, beautiful place, filled with both the greenery and sounds of nature. What better way to await God’s returning song?

Difficult

When you buy music on this site, you are purchasing a PDF from which to make your own copies.  While I would love to have my works widely distributed, I trust that you will make copies only for yourself and the group you represent.  Thanks.

To listen to “In Place,” click here.

To listen to “All in a Dream,” click here.

To listen to “Canzone,” click here.

To listen to “On my Shining Hour,” click here.