Gossamer Inventions

Instrumentation:  Piano Solo

Duration:  ca. 9:30

Movements:

I. Moderato cantabile
II. Con moto
III. Allegro
IV. Moderato scherzando e tranquillo
V. Quasi senza misura
VI. Misterioso

Program Note:

The theme for these inventions is a four-note motive which is treated in its original form (marked as “prime”), in inversion, in retrograde, and in retrograde-inversion. All six combinations of these four forms are treated in two-part counterpoint. In the course of working with these confined requirements, I was surprised to see how the material developed in a wide variety of moods and styles, seemingly of its own volition. The general atmosphere of the work is inspired by Lois Lowry’s novel, Gossamer.

Premiere:  November 13, 2016; Spokane, WA.