Above Ground Level is a multi-movement chamber work evoking the suspended, ever-shifting beauty of the troposphere. Each movement is centered around a cloud type, with harmonies and lines that draw inspiration from the writing of French Impressionists including Ravel and Debussy.

Recorded on December 4, 2015

Violin: Victoria Bouton
Cello: Beth Paul
Piano: Esteban Rojas

Above Ground Level
I: Cirrus
II: Cumulus
III: Cumulonimbus
IV: Stratus


Above Ground Level: A trio for violin, cello, and piano

Song of Ascents is a choral work composed to evoke the idea of a body of worshipers joining in song together. It is inspired by the text of Psalms 120-134, the Biblical "Songs of Ascents," which many scholars believe were sung by worshipers on pilgrimage to Jerusalem. 

At its opening, the lyrics depict the pilgrims arising before dawn to gather. As the piece progresses, more voices are added, until the climactic point when the sun finally rises. This is followed by a polyphonic section in which many familiar hymn tunes are layered and sung simultaneously.

Live performance by the Walnut Hill UMC Chancel Choir on June 28th, 2015.

Song Of Ascents: For SATB Choir with Piano Accompaniment

I am but a tender shoot, too liable to break in wind that blows across a barren plain
No place to hide from the gale that buffets
But you are hidden in the ground, your treasure buried from of old
So I will sink my soul into the secret place underneath the soil

Would I were a tree by the river where your streams of mercy flow
Shedding every leaf of a former me in the Spirit's glow
Bathed in the light of your presence I will be made to grow
Savoring a glimpse of a future which I still have yet to know

I have but a sparrow's wings, too frail, too feeble for the flight
Across the lofty mountain peaks which loom above in majestic glory
But you now call me higher still, and say, "This too you will attain."
You bear me on your gentle breath, and somehow I will ascend to meet you

(c)2016 Reverie Music

Would I Were A Tree

Cover of Feelin' Good as performed by Michael Buble

Feelin' Good

I'm a singer-songwriter who dabbles in soul, jazz, electroacoustic, and whatever else catches my fancy. I also write more formal compositions for choir and chamber ensembles in a neo-impressionist style. I have a taste for both the new and the old-fashioned, and I try never to write the same song twice.

victoriaboutonmusic