Two Modal Episodes

SKU: AP.36662

UPC: 038081416601. English.

The first modal episode begins with a chant-like melody in G Aeolian mode (natural minor) that is reminiscent of early medieval music. The full brass section answers with simple block chords that accentuate the modal tonality. The Allegro that follows is set in B-flat Mixolydian mode (major scale with a flatted seventh). A dance-like melody dominates this episode and the percussion section is featured in a simple question-and-answer exchange.

SKU: SU.32040150

From delightful to lonesome to fiery, this three movement suite invites both performers and listeners to share the joy of being enveloped in richness of tone, creating poignant expressions of the heart. Marvelous recital and concert music. Vignette I: Delightful Dance Jaunty rhythms and clever surprises render a joyful opening section. Later, a warm, love filled melody is poured out by each instrumentalist, and climbs to a glorious tutti. Then it is back to the joyful dance, a few more surprises, and a delightfully happy ending. Vignette II: Lonesome Chaconne opens with two dark chords. Then the piano begins the chaconne with a mournful bass line and plaintive off beats. The viola enters and plays a lonesome melody, then is joined by the cello in a melancholy duet over the chaconne until it dies away. The cello's brief recitative emerges from the depths into an aching cry that is then echoed by the viola. Joining together, they pour out a fervent melody, moving higher and higher until they breakthrough to the light. Alas, the vision fades, and they return to only fragments as the chaconne disappears. Vignette III: Fiery Fugue opens with a feisty subject melody, first in the viola, followed by the cello, piano right hand, and left hand. It is similar in form to a Bach fugue, but uses modal tonality and syncopated rhythms. The statements and episodes build to a recall of the fervent melody from the second movement, leading to the final dynamic unison statement of the fugue subject. Just as it almost dies away, it recharges and boldly bounds ahead to the end. Difficulty Level: 5 (Advanced) Viola, Cello, Piano Duration: 13'30 Composed: 2016 Published by: Amy Mills Music, LLC See composer website for audio sample.