NOTE: Please acknowledge the authorship of these program notes by Jose Elizondo, the composer, if you use them for publicity material, concert program notes, or any other publication.

 

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·                  Crepúsculos

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·                  Twilights

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·                  Alpenglow

 

·        Commission: Commissioned by and dedicated to Turkish flutist Sefika Kutluer

·        Duration: 4:30 minutes

·        Mood: contemplative, lyrical

·        Premiere: Sefika Kutluer, flute soloist. Ankara String Ensemble. December 25th, 2019

 

Program Notes by José Elizondo:

 

This piece is inspired by Alpenglow, a specific type of twilight characterized by a magical pinkish or orange light that appears at the top of the Alps just before the sun sets. The composition is sweet yet melancholic, with elements of minimalist and impressionist inspiration. The piano plays a continuous stream of sound that is sometimes sweet and tender, other times more angular, and occasionally quotes the Gregorian chant “Dies Irae.” This represents the inexorable passage of time, encompassing moments of joy, sorrow, and mourning. In contrast, the main melody of the soloist instrument provides a comforting, warm, and consoling presence, accompanying the listener in this meditation on life and death. The intention of the piece is to evoke a moment of joyful serenity.