Three Equivocal Songs (2004) - Concertino for Violin and Chamber Orchestra

Challenging; about 16 minutes for the whole piece. $40 for score, parts, demo recording; order here. With Three Equivocal Songs I set out to compose a relatively short, practical concerto for violin, emphasizing as much as possible a lyrical, singing manner of violin playing.  I augmented the very versatile instrumentation of the original Appalachian Spring with a percussion part for added motoric and coloristic possibilities.  In the sense that each movement is “equivocal”— vague and undecided as to fact or sentiment— I tried to capture three states of mind in which a difficult, nagging thought will not leave one alone.  I also like how the word comes apart into “equal vocal,” another emphasis of the singing quality of the solo part.  Though contrasting expressive modes are included in each movement—the most prominent way of manifesting the notion of equivocation—a wistful lyricism wins out in every case. The melodic materials of the three movements are interrelated, and rising 7ths are frequent gestures.  Many of the harmonies are also interrelated and a number have jazzy sonorities.  The 1st and 3rd movements are in continuous development forms with some rondo-like qualities; the 1st movement employs an ostinato that reflects the solo part.  The 2nd movement is in a symmetrical ABCBA form.

I. An Occasional Obsession (about 4:00)

II. A Latent Lament (about 6:25)

III. A Reluctant Restiveness (about 5:15)