Piano Solo - Level 4 - Digital Download
SKU: A0.1295715
Composed by Donald Ashwander. Ragtime. Score. 6 pages. The Donald Ashwander Estate #886012. Published by The Donald Ashwander Estate (A0.1295715).
Perdido Bay Moon Rag is a heartfelt and evocative solo piano composition dedicated to the memory of an elegant lady whose love for dance and a chance suggestion led to the creation of this beautiful piece. The composition pays homage to the serene beauty and cherished memories of Bear Point, Alabama, a place rich in history and personal significance to the composer, Donald Ashwander.
The story behind Perdido Bay Moon Rag begins on a summer day when Donald, along with friends Edith and Edwin Zelnicker, found themselves on the picturesque Bear Point, Alabama. This tranquil peninsula on the shores of Perdido Bay held a special place in their hearts, as it was a locale where they had spent countless hours as children. They reminisced about their youth, playing beneath the majestic magnolia trees adorned with Spanish Moss and exploring ancient Indian mounds in search of pottery shards.
It was during this nostalgic conversation that Edith, the elegant lady in question, suggested the title for a piano composition: Perdido Bay Moon Rag. Enchanted by the idea, Donald was determined to bring this vision to life. Upon returning to New York, he began crafting the piece, but it somehow eluded his grasp. Despite this initial challenge, he designed an appropriate cover for the composition and sent it to Edith and Edwin in Mobile.
Over the years, Perdido Bay Moon Rag remained a fixture on Edith and Edwin's piano, a symbol of a cherished memory and unfulfilled promise. Edith confessed to her friend that she had attempted to play the piece but found it too complex, and so it remained unplayed.
Time passed, and sadly, Edith fell ill. On a poignant visit to Mobile after Edith's passing, the atmosphere in their home was filled with her spirit. There, prominently displayed on the piano, lay Perdido Bay Moon Rag. In that moment, Donald knew that he needed to fulfill his promise and honor Edith's memory properly.
With newfound determination and inspiration, Donald embarked on a journey to create a completely new composition that would capture the essence of Bear Point, Perdido Bay, and the moonlit nights they had cherished. This time, the music flowed effortlessly from his fingertips, as if guided by the memories and love he held for his dear friend.
Perdido Bay Moon Rag is a testament to the enduring power of memories, friendship, and the creative process. It reflects the tranquility of Bear Point, the gentle sway of Spanish Moss, and the serenity of moonlit nights on the bay. Through its delicate melodies and intricate rhythms, the composition invites listeners to share in the deep emotions and fond recollections that inspired its creation.
The final page of the sheet music contains special program notes by Donald Ashwander.
