embers, cinders, ash
for b-flat clarinet, violin, cello, and piano
for b-flat clarinet, violin, cello, and piano
duration:
ca. 9 minutes movements: i. self-ignition ii. the warmth of those around you iii. extinguished |
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program notes:
When I begin writing a piece about a topic that is commonly portrayed I try to ask myself - are there any ways to think about this topic in a different way. For ember, cinders, ash, I took a look at something simple - fire - and my personal relationship with the topic aside from it being generically dangerous.
i. self-ignition
A common struggle that I notice people have a lot is getting a lighter to start. It is a task that is so ordinary, but is failed so often which makes it somewhat comical. "self-ignition" is centered around this idea, and based on me attempting to light my candle but not realizing the fan was blowing into my lighter.
ii. the warmth of those around you
A fire is commonly used in many social settings. I have spent many great moments with friends and family around bonfires, fireplaces, and candles. In "the warmth of those around you", the piano represents the slow burning fire, its warmth providing comfort to the other instruments who sing on top. The clarinet, violin, and cello even mingle, all brought together by the fire.
iii. extinguished
Revisiting concepts of the first movement, "extinguished" is about putting the fire out. The process is quite trivial as the fire persists, attempting to hold onto life by its few remaining flames. In the end, the fire is put out - only until its heat is needed once more.
When I begin writing a piece about a topic that is commonly portrayed I try to ask myself - are there any ways to think about this topic in a different way. For ember, cinders, ash, I took a look at something simple - fire - and my personal relationship with the topic aside from it being generically dangerous.
i. self-ignition
A common struggle that I notice people have a lot is getting a lighter to start. It is a task that is so ordinary, but is failed so often which makes it somewhat comical. "self-ignition" is centered around this idea, and based on me attempting to light my candle but not realizing the fan was blowing into my lighter.
ii. the warmth of those around you
A fire is commonly used in many social settings. I have spent many great moments with friends and family around bonfires, fireplaces, and candles. In "the warmth of those around you", the piano represents the slow burning fire, its warmth providing comfort to the other instruments who sing on top. The clarinet, violin, and cello even mingle, all brought together by the fire.
iii. extinguished
Revisiting concepts of the first movement, "extinguished" is about putting the fire out. The process is quite trivial as the fire persists, attempting to hold onto life by its few remaining flames. In the end, the fire is put out - only until its heat is needed once more.