Songs from the High Sierra

The five letters which provide the lyrics for these songs (written by John Muir and adapted by the composer) were selected for their range of topics and sentiments. Some portray wildlife in the mountains, others extol the beauty of the Sierra. One expresses the whimsical personality of the author, and the final letter speaks reverently of the great trees in a language both naturalistic and sacred. They are the "greatest light in the woods, the greatest light in the world." The musical settings are quite programmatic, especially in the piano accompaniment. The five movements are: Ascent: Glacier Birds and Other Companions; Glory in the Mountains; Yosemite Falls; Ice! and Descent: Sequoia.