Union Station, Toronto
Reflection and Resolution
A lush orchestral work with lyrical wind solos.
Reflection was selected in the Toronto Symphony Orchestra open call for scores and was read by the orchestra October 2015. The idea of reflection can take many forms: it can be a literal reflection or inversion, or it can be an
introspective looking back. This work builds on both of these aspects of reflection. The melodies that float
into the introduction are often presented in duets where the lower voice follows the upper in contrary motion
– a literal musical reflection. Underneath the melodies, the harmonic progressions shift inwards and outwards
in another kind of musical reflection. As they do, the lower chords clash deliciously with the upper chords.
These processes create the musical tension which must be dealt with. Resolution has an important musical
meaning: the resolution of dissonant sounds into more pleasing consonance. Resolution is also the end result
of this work’s introspection. After reflecting back on the introductory musical material the work resolves itself
to move beyond and finish with a majestic, resolute flourish.
| Duration: | 11:00 min. |
|---|---|
| Instrumentation: | 2222 3200 T+ vibes strings |
| Composition Date: | September 2012 |
View the score
Listen to a sample recording
by the Stratford Symphony Orchestra