Half Moon Nocturne

PROGRAM NOTES:

Half Moon Nocturne (2007) for chamber ensemble was commissioned by, and is dedicated to, H. Robert Reynolds and the Detroit Chamber Winds and Strings. The first performance, conducted by Miller Asbill, was given by the ensemble on October 21, 2007.

Half Moon Nocturne is a sonic exploration of the beautiful Pinckney Recreation Area in Southwest Michigan. I have enjoyed numerous hikes with my husband around the Half Moon and Silver Lakes, yet I am continually amazed by the unique beauty and subtle transformation of familiar objects with the change of season. Winter’s stark, dry lines draw a nice contrast with summer’s lush palette of varying greens amidst hot, humid swamps and the din of toads.

While this is my first piece about Michigan's natural beauty, it follows in a long line of pieces inspired by nature. Half Moon Nocturne combines disparate musical elements to create an aural synthesis of visual and emotional cues drawn from my experiences there. Duration ca. 9:45.
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– Notes by the composer, Andrea Reinkemeyer

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