American Triptych presents aspects of spiritual experience as expressed by three North American poets: Americans E. E. Cummings and W. S. Merwin, and Canadian Bliss Carman. Commissioned by the Reading Choral Society, Reading, Pennsylvania, David DeVenney, conductor. The work received its premiere performance on November 13, 1999.

 

The third movement, Mariner's Carol, uses the metaphor of a sea journey to express a spiritual journey toward wholeness. A return to the minimalist rhythmic textures of the first movement creates a mood both calm and expectant. The chosen ensemble of instruments (harp, soprano saxophone, double bass,piano and percussion) gives the work a decidedly American character.

 

This work can also be performed with piano four-hands alone, or with piano four-hands and any combination of the ensemble instruments, with the two pianists omitting any doublings as indicated by the cues. Duration: 8:00