Yellowknife has a classical music organization called COSY - Classics On Stage Yellowknife. My new piece Bend, Willow Branchwas commissioned by COSY and will be premiered on June 9th 2o19.
A celebrated duo from New York, Anna Maria Baeza (clarinet) and Joachim Woitun (cellist) will join Yellowknife Maureen Crotty-Williams (flute) to perform Bend, Willow Branch.
Bend, Willow Branchis a piece inspired by the low willow trees growing on the shores of Great Slave Lake. They are a commonly found tree, but they possess many beautiful qualities that I explore in this piece. Their flexibility and speedy growth, their healing powers, the graceful branches that are exposed in the spring before leaves emerge, with the softest of downy willow tips welcoming the sun. I wrote this poem as I composed the work, and include lines at specific points in the performers' scores.
branches, long and slim
growing and softening in spring
weaving through the boreal forest
weaving the dream catcher circle
glowing deep and red
as the sap begins to flow
healing and wisdom
hidden in the bark
after the winter snows pull and bend
Other works performed at the concert include Bach Cello Suite No. 2, The Jet Whistleby Villa Lobos, Brahms Sonata for clarinet and piano in f minor, second and third movements, Mozart arrangements and Milhaud's Suite for violin, clarinet and piano. I'll be playing piano, and Yellowknife violinist Barbara Fortin-Clinton will also perform. Tickets ($15 / $20) available at the door, or from ROY’S or directly from COSY Board Members.
