Description

Duration 17′

2(1P), Treble Recorder, 2(1CA), 3(1BCl), Baritone Sax, 2+C. 2.2.3.1. 1T + 4P.

This was the second Steve Reich-inspired effort. SRI is driving, headlong music, this is more atmospheric, and tells a story.  It would have been A Walk in the Woods but it’s in ¾ so the Waltz seemed appropriate. The woods were going to be tranquil English ones, but things take a decidedly spooky turn in the middle section. After a stream has appeared innocently then gathered pace and strength, we wander off into the trees, where twigs crackle, leaves rustle, owls hoot; we feel lost, it’s very Blair Witch, and the use of a haunting treble recorder doesn’t help. But we return to the path, to glorious progress – from ca. 10 minutes-13.40ish is some of the most joyful music I’ve written – and the Walk ends dreamily.