Mourning

Mourning was composed as reflection of the initial feelings associated with the loss of someone or something dear. The initial numbness and grief along with anger and disbelief, ultimately ending in a resigned acceptance. This piece is a powerful representation of the emotions associated with loss; something we all experience throughout life. The introduction begins with a solemn processional rhythm in pizzicato strings accompanied by a floating solo violin. A lamenting melody is presented as a pair of duets between English Horn and F Horn followed by Clarinet and Trumpet with the final phrase stated by English Horn, Clarinet, and 2 Horns. Woodwinds and strings take over with a solemn countermelody in the Bassoon and Cello. The processional rhythm returns in percussion joined by the low brass and horns, handing off to the woodwinds. The third section is a highlighted by a driving ostinato in the low strings highlighted by short stabs in the upper strings followed by the woodwinds and trumpets. This section has features an expanding use of frantic 16th notes first in the woodwinds and ending with the upper strings. The next section continues the processional with violins performing glissandi in contrary motion while clarinets perform only on the mouthpiece and barrel to create a mournful wailing effect. The closing section is a full orchestra statement of the main theme ending with fragmented statements of the theme in woodwind pairs over the processional ostinato in the basses.