From its propulsive opening bars that evoke the great "Eroica" symphony, Samuel Adler's A STRUGGLE BETWEEN DARKNESS AND LIGHT is a high-energy homage to the essence of Beethoven's music. Composed to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Viennese master's death in 2027, this four-minute marvel pits elegant triadic melody against anxious chromatic lines, creating a Beethovenesque musical drama in miniature form. This delightful and intriguing work is rewarding to hear on its own, or as a companion to a Beethoven sonata. For advanced performers.