Kitzke - The Animist Child

JEROME KITZKE The Animist Child for toy piano / voice

The Animist Child is a stomp on the earth for the beginning of life; a baby born who instinctively embraces the soul inherent in all things. It is dedicated to Bix Carl Windbiel, born June 30th, 1994. This work was written for Wendy Mae Chambers and premiered by her on July 21st, 1994 in New York City.

Originally written for a two-and-a-half octave instrument, this new edition, first published in 2016, reflects changes I made after I began performing the piece on the subsequently more widely available three-octave instrument. In addition to a more expanded keyboard part, this edition also has a more fleshed out vocal part, incorporating additions and embellishments that became a part of the regular performance practice through repeated performances I did in the mid 90’s. It is my hope that this new edition makes for a richer, more effective artistic experience.

The spoken vocal lines should be performed with an intense and playful theatrical verve, following the shape suggested by the placement of notes on the vocal staff. Male performers should perform the sung vocal parts in the register indicated in the score. Female performers should make adjustments as necessary. Accidentals apply to the given measure.

Amplification should be used as needed depending on the size and acoustic of the performance venue.

—Jerome Kitzke, Winter 2016

Toy piano range:

Duration: ca. 5’ 30”

On the cover: “New Moon and Fledgling” by Mary Wheeler (1996) oil on panel, 6” x 8”

© Copyright 1994 by Peer International Corporation All Rights Reserved. International Copyright Secured.