American Triptych: 1. i thank You God

American Triptych presents aspects of spiritual experience as expressed by three North American poets: Americans E. E. Cummings and W. S. Merwin, and Canadian Bliss Carman. The first movement, i thank You God, is an extroverted fanfare of praise to God the Creator, with liberal use of mixed meter, syncopation and minimalist rhythmic patterns. The chosen ensemble of instruments (harp, soprano saxophone, double bass, piano and percussion) gives the work a decidedly American character. This work can also be performed with piano four-hands alone, or with piano four-hands and any combination of the ensemble instruments. The instrumental parts include all three movements of the Triptych. Duration: 5:30