Adagio (2023)

Trombone Quartet | ca. 5'30"

Instrumentation

3 Trombones, Bass Trombone

Program Note

While it was not written in response to any particular tragic occurrence or personal loss, Adagio has a strangely nostalgic and reminiscent character, like it longs for the past or yearns for some sort of acceptance. Taking the form of a simple arc, the piece searches — timidly at first, but then gradually more restlessly — unable to cling to a convincing tonal center. The music increases slowly until all tension is released at the center peak through the discovery of D Major, announced in soaring exclamation. There is a sense of satisfaction and renewal as the piece comes full circle with the reprise of the opening chorale, but yet the feeling of melancholy still lingers.