VIOLA and PIANO

Originally composed for solo cello, this work has been adapted by the composer in response to requests from violists. The melodic theme comes from the final chorus of Hailstorks Earthrise, a profoundly bold cantata using Schillers Ode to Joy as text, and full of allusions to all four movements of Beethovens Symphony No. 9. Hailstorks Earthrise features a festival chorus singing in German, alternating with an African American chorus singing in English with vernacular verve. The two choirs ultimately unite to end the cantata together with Draw the Sacred Circle Closer, a translation of lines from Schillers Ode to Joy.