'Ballade, Pastorale and Dance' was composed in the winter of 1992-1993. It was commissioned by and is dedicated to David Wakefield and Barli Nugent, who premiered the work at Aspen in July of 1993. The combination of flute, horn and piano produces a chamber music ensemble with wonderful possibilities in terms of contrasting colors and textures, resulting in a kaliedoscopic wolrd of alternating moods and dynamics. The first movement begins ominously and mysteriously, but quickly turns frenetic and wild with spinning flute flourishes percussive horn gestures and dramaticpiano chords. The second movement, somposed during the winter holidays, has a gentle impressionistic feel. Long, beautiful and personal songs are sung by both the horn and flute. The final movement, with its lively dance rhythms, brings the piece to an exhilarating conclusion. |
