Rustic Scene for Viola and Piano

Rustic Scene for Viola and Piano evokes the quintessentially American frontier character and spirit. Viola and piano imitate, chase, and call out to the other as they explore the full range and dynamic possibilities of both instruments. Folk-like melodies, harmonies built on fourths, dissonances of rubbing seconds, clashing sevenths, and devilish fourths (diabolous in musica) give color to the dialogues. The musical terrain includes calm, quiet and melodious conversations, ecstatic dancing, cascading scales, and fiery musical competition before settling on a common vision. Each theme has its own character and tempo, and the cadenza for the viola is reminiscent of fragrant blossoms in the summer. Rustic Scene vividly evokes a landscape full of lush harmonies and exotic melodic perfumes, a musical vista of resonant colors and aromatic counterpoint.