Pastorale

Pastorale was composed in the summer and fall of 2007 for the Westminster Winds. Inspired by the music of Aaron Copland, this piece is an attempt to evoke the sounds and colors of American music within the context of a modern serial composition. The composition has three themes. The first is heard in the horn, and is based on a succession of fourths. It culminates with a dramatic leap into the upper register. The second theme is monophonic and chordal in nature, with all 5 players moving in parallel motion. The third theme is first heard in the flute, and is fast and rhythmically aggressive. The three themes are then restated and developed before the piece ends with a recapitulation of the introduction.