Score of the Sun movement
On March 8th, 2008, the San Francisco Composers Chamber Orchestra (SFCCO) premiered my composition Sun & Moon, a work deeply rooted in the concept of circle-music. This form of music embraces a structure where phrases can be performed in any sequence or timing, offering a rich tapestry of sound that defies traditional musical narratives.
Sun & Moon draws inspiration from ancient mythology, where the celestial bodies have symbolized contrasting yet complementary forces since the dawn of humanity. The sun represents the masculine, the source of light and life, while the moon reflects the feminine, reigning over the darkness and the rhythms of time. Together, they embody the dualistic nature of existence—balancing light and dark, male and female, life and decay.
The composition is structured in two parts: the “Sun” section begins on the left side of the ensemble and sonically moves across to the right, mirroring the sun’s journey across the sky. Conversely, the “Moon” section starts from the right, moving to the left, encapsulating the moon’s nocturnal path. This movement not only illustrates their respective celestial paths but also their influence over the natural world.
I was introduced to the concept of circle music by Dr. Cindy McTee, who composed a piece in this style for my bassoon teacher, Sue Schrier (Bancroft). Inspired by its flexibility and the unique challenges it presents, Sun & Moon was crafted to allow each musician the freedom to explore the themes within a loosely defined framework, mimicking the dance of these heavenly bodies.
This performance by the SFCCO not only explored these ancient symbols through modern compositional techniques but also invited the audience to experience the perpetual interplay between the sun and the moon, echoing through time and space.
Sun & Moon
