Scrimshaw Tales

SKU: CF.CPS270F

ISBN 9781491164099. UPC: 680160922888.

Scrimshaw is the technique of whalebone and ivory carving that was started by sailors centuries ago. Inspired by the composer's stay in Utqiagvik, Alaska, this composition musically illustrates scenes from these carvings that depict a day of Alaskan fishing. Starting broadly and majestically, the music quickly moves to a lively and energetic section that features syncopation and introduces the concept of canonic entrances. A return to the initial thematic material brings the piece to an exciting conclusion. Although challenging in many ways, this composition fully rewards all performers and listeners with a thrilling musical journey.
Scrimshaw is the technique of ivory carving, an art form I saw firsthand during my stay in Barrow (Utqiagvik), the northernmost town in North America. Scrimshaw Tales depicts some of the scenes that sailors and artists once carved into whale bone and ivory, often related to the day-to-day activities of Alaskan fishing crews.The opening 28 measures (Port at Dawn) should be played broadly and majestically. Measures 29 through 66 (A Gathering of Ships) should be playing in a lively and energetic manner. The various canonic entrances represent the ships as they leave port one-by-one. Measures 67 through 132 (Out to Sea) should be played forcefully and energetically. Each successive entrance should push the pulse of this section to its conclusion at 132.Measures 133 through 150 (Return to Port) recalls the opening section, played with sweeping grandeur.