Shadow Dances

Commissioned by Lake Union Civic Orchestra
Completed in 2015
Duration: 12 minutes

Premiered on April 24, 2015 in Seattle, Washington
Lake Union Civic Orchestra

Program Note

Shadow Dances is loosely inspired by the tradition of shadow puppetry that has been a rich part of the artistic landscape of Southeast Asia for centuries.  I imagine two central characters unfolding the drama of the music through dance, appearing as dark silhouettes against a bright background.  The first dancer is gentle, graceful, and reserved; she is depicted in the piece’s opening through lyrical solos for the flute and clarinet set against light, shimmering strings and percussion.  The second dancer is bold, pronounced, and passionate; his music resounds with brass fanfares and lush, soaring themes in the strings and winds.  At times they dance in harmony, and at times they each take center stage.  Together the two dancers weave an intricate musical tapestry of textures, moods, and emotions through whirling colors, impassioned melodies, and triumphant outbursts.