Relics of the Past

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — The music for Relics of the Past was inspired by a trip to Yosemite National Park in California with my family. The expansive views of the park leave you in a state of awe. From Half Dome to Yosemite Falls to the giant Sequoia trees and more, one cannot help but feel like a privileged guest witnessing this natural beauty. There is also a haunting historical element to the land as a result of the battle for its control. This dichotomy of beauty and conflict is at the heart of Relics of the Past.The opening harmonic progression represents the expansive beauty of the park. This music acts as a common thread throughout the composition. The aggressive rhythmic figure that follows represents the conflict for the control of the land. The main melody for the piece makes its first appearance at m. 17. This melody in the first violin is enhanced by energetic punctuations from the rest of the ensemble. Further development of the melody follows at m. 25 which leads into a rhythmic break at m .33. The celli and basses provide the impact, while the violins and violas create the tension with some basic dissonance. The dissonance thirsts for resolution which is given at m .41. The expansiveharmonic passage returns at m .43 in a more reflective style. Please bring out the dynamic swells throughout this passage. A bold melodic statement from the celli and basses enters out of theaggressive rhythmic energy from the violins and violas at m .59. A build up at m .65 leads to a finalxa0statement of the expansive harmonic progression at m .72. I employ the rhythmic figure to bring the piece to a strong conclusion. From popular composer Sean O'Loughlin, Relics of the Past is a serious-sounding piece that hearkens back to the past with its mysterious minor mode. The maturity required to play this piece makes it perfect for contest and festival.

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