This work was started on May 25, 2013, the morning of my mother's memorial service. She was 101.  The movements of this work reflect my thoughts on that day.  "Persistent Memories" uses repeated notes and imitation to create a sense of the inevitability of loss. Although supported by friends and family, one cannot help but feel alone.  In "Waking Dreams" the canon between flute and clarinet expresses the feeling that one cannot quite connect to the best images of the one who is lost, but in the end, the memories are a reminder of the
best of times growing up.  "Memorial Ceremony": These services are a sad reminder of loss but also a celebration of the life that has just ended. Repeated bass notes serve as the reminder of loss. But they also raise the pitch periodically.  My mother's service was more about celebration than about loss.  So, the movement builds to a crescendo of activity and ends on a positive note.  "Wake - Awaken" begins boldly.  Both flute and clarinet begin in unison for the festivities.  Flutter tonguing from the flute reminds us that a good life has ended.  Still, the celebration of life must go on.

Somber Saturdays [with alto flute]

daugmuse

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