O For A Thousand Tongues

Scored for Saxophone quartet (A-A-T-B) with opt. Soprano for first Alto. The introduction starts with the First Alto playing a melodic motif, ever rising to a climatic point and then settling down to the theme- first presented in the First and Tenor parts weaving in and out producing a flowing texture, then joined by the Second Alto and eventually the Baritone. The chorus section of the hymn is a constant weaving of the four parts both harmonically and rhythmically. The next section becomes more active rhythmically adding tension until it settles down into a sweet aura of sound with gentle nudges of harmonic alteration. The final measures give an atmosphere of rest and solace.

An accompanied flute solo which begins with a piano introduction and then presents a modified melody with an extended cadence in the piano. A modulation occurs where the solo line presents a variation of the original theme to a higher register giving a sense of intensity and then ends with a solemn motive.

Written for Flute quartet, this pieces creates a solemn presence by the way it interweaves the various parts together. It would work well for a meditation.

(2fl, 2cl, unacc)