Reflection

Anticipation, anxiety, trials and tribulations, and ultimately, reflection, are what one experiences in any rite of passage. This work was inspired by the sense of euphoric calm that comes when one knows the difficult obstacles are behind and the end of a journey is near and attainable. Reflecting upon all that has transpired along the way, one is filled with an inner peace as they approach and reach their aspiration.

Completed in 2019, Reflection, is an arrangement for string orchestra of the third movement of String Quartet No. 2, “The Rite of Passage” which was composed as a tone poem of sorts in three movements (I. Anticipation, II. Passage, and III. Reflection) – each movement representing part of the journey within a rite of passage. The third movement is quite conducive to string orchestra, which led to this arrangement – ala how Samuel Barber arranged the second movement of his String Quartet in B minor, Op. 11 (i.e., Adagio for Strings).

Ethereal harmonics, rich chords, lyrical melodies, subtle articulations, and warm dynamic contrasts are featured in this work, along with a persistent pulse that drives its energy. With the addition of double bass in this arrangement, the low C is utilized to help emphasize the epic drama of this work.  

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