2017
8′ 10”
Program Notes
Retrospection, for large ensemble, illustrates how we can look back
on our memories, and how the experiences in our life alters our
perception despite the fact that the actions in the memory stay the
same. We may look back on the same memory, and find joy or
sadness, anger or apathy, as we process them. Through
retrospection, we may make these memories more clear and
accurate, and give them more meaning, or conversely we might
dilute the memory and lose whatever meaning it may have once
carried. Retrospection emulates this by repeating the same motive
throughout the piece, each time cast in a different soundscape that
alters its perception. Over the course of the piece, this gradually
becomes clearer, as the confusion is gradually replaced by clarity,
and the memory is put firmly in place.
Premiere Information
Retrospection was premiered by the University of Illinois Modern Ensemble under the baton of Stephen Taylor.
Mixed Ensemble
Flute
Oboe
Clarinet
Alto Sax
Bassoon
Horn in F
Trumpet
Trombone
Tuba
2 Percussionists
Piano
2 Violins
Viola
Cello
Double Bass