The Red Gully

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — The Red Gully is inspired by a large gully in one of the many woodland areas of Blackstock, South Carolina. The gully, explored extensively by the composer as a child, served as the creative inspiration for many imaginary adventures. Though erosion has changed the appearance of the gully over the years, the piece isintended to capture its initial canyon-like majesty and the lasting impression that it left on the composer in his youth. The introduction portrays the arrival in the clearing where the gully resides and sets the stage for the adventures that follow. Themain theme is presented by the first violins in m. 13. The accompaniment should be played with plenty of separation between the notes and should maintain a forward momentum. The contrasting lyrical section at m. 21 should be played as legato as possible. New material is presented in m. 61 and this entire section should be played at a slightly faster tempo than before. Following this section, the main theme is developed and the introductory material returns at m. 90, bringing the piece to a close. The Red Gully is inspired by a large gully in one of the many woodland areas of Blackstock, South Carolina. Composer George Sweet explores one of his favorite places in this lovely new piece, containing whimsical melodies and a fresh harmonic perspective.

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