Evocation

String Orchestra & Harp

My first love as a bright-eyed, young composer was Gustav Mahler. I had never knowingly heard any of his music until I was given the opportunity to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra play his Sixth Symphony. This was my introduction to Mahler; not the Fifth, not the Second, but the Tragic. I remember leaving that performance excited, wildly obsessed, but truly and deeply sad. I often wonder if this is the reason for my current tastes. I do not seek out the finales of the Second or Eighth before embracing and reflecting in the Ruhevoll of the Fourth or the Adagietto of the Fifth.

Who am I to choose what moves me and what does not?

This work came from somewhere... where exactly, I will never truly know. The mere appearance of this work and ferocity in which it manifested itself struck me deeply. This awakening of something that at its core is raw emotion could only inspire its own identity. Evocation is the act of bringing or recalling a feeling, memory, or image to the conscious mind. If nothing else, I hope for this piece to evoke something within those who experience and perform it.

(Program notes provided by the composer. Please use these program notes for all performances.)

Score/Parts - PDF $80

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The Harbour and the Shore - Wind Ensemble Grade 3.5

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The Call - Symphony Orchestra