“Rothko Landscapes” was composed after the success of two earlier works, “Multiplicities” for solo clarinet and “Magical Place of My Dreams” for two clarinets. Both works, written for the clarinetist Richard Nunemaker, use extended techniques for the instruments, most notably multiphonics. Dick wondered about the possiblilities of four clarinets using the same methods. He also suggested using the paintings of the great abstract expressionist, Mark Rothko, as a theme for the new work. The first two movements are meant to be musical realizations of Rothko’s paintings “Maroon on Blue” and “Number 7.” The last movement, “Abstract Expressions,” summarizes the musical events heard earlier.