Spaces of Night
The Albuquerque Chapter of the American Guild of Organists has commissioned Spaces of Night, an 18 minute song cycle in 7 parts for mezzo-soprano, strings, and organ. Originally, the Chapter Program Committee and I had discussed my writing an organ concerto. I was a little hesitant with this idea as I had just completed my first organ concerto, and had already sent to the score on to my publisher.
But as talks progressed, the idea of song cycle presented itself. This really seemed perfect. I love setting poetry, and as larger pieces for voice, organ, and strings, where the organ part is more than just continuo are not exactly numerous, I felt this would be a challenge worth pursuing. I settled on a selection from the works of American poet Stephen Crane (of the Red Badge of Courage Fame)… yes, he wrote some amazing poems.
The libretto works through what can be seen as an exasperation with the institutional church, which is a familiar theme in Crane's poetic writing. He asks some hard and relevant questions the answers to which can be found with equal measure either within or without the church. I continue to be surprised with how poignant his reflections are a 100 years later.
A voice and organ only version is planned so that the work can be performed without an orchestra. The piece in general is a fusion of sorts between an organ concerto and a song cycle. In a way, it could be considered a double concerto as the vocal soloist and the organist are featured prominently and at times equally.
The vocal part, while intended for a Mezzo Soprano (in the case of the premiere the music was written specifically for Kathleen Clawson), the 'role' can also be sung by a baritone. The organ part will require a significant instrument in order to fully exploit the expressive qualities of the piece. The first performance of this music will be on March 17th, 2012 in Keller Hall on the campus of the University of New Mexico. Following the premiere performance, you will be able to hear live MP3 clips of each movement which will be posted to this page.
Read the Libretto
Explore the Music:
If I should cast off this tattered coat...
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God fashioned the ship of the world...
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In the night..
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Two or three angels...
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There was a great cathedral...
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A slant of sun on dull brown walls...
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The silvered passing of a ship at night...
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