for orchestra (2002, rev. 2019)
commissioned by the Phoenix Symphony, Hermann Michael, conductor, for their Beethoven Festival in January 2002
INSTRUMENTATION
Piccolo
2 Flutes
2 Oboes
2 Clarinets in A
2 Bassoons
Contrabassoon
4 Horns in F
3 Trumpets in C
2 Trombones
Bass Trombone
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion (3 players)
Glockenspiel, Xylophone, Vibraphone, Chimes, Suspended Cymbal, Sizzle Cymbal, Tamtam, Tom-toms, Bass Drum
Piano
Strings
duration: ca. 10 minutes
PROGRAM NOTE
The work is a musical tale of Ludwig Van Beethoven transcending the grim realities of his life and finding the inspiration to compose the joyous first movement of his Symphony no. 7. The unmistakable dotted motive of this movement begins in the familiar way but quickly spirals into despair and hopelessness. After enduring its share of musical trials and tribulations, it manages to find its way out of the gloom. Who or what causes this transformation I leave to the imagination of the listener.
—Kevin Puts