Movement 2 of Exaltations — can be performed as an individual work for double choir and trombone.
Program Notes (for entire set)
Exaltations is a set of three interstitial works for double choir and brass quintet, written specifically to fit between the works on this program of Gabrieli and Bruckner. I love the sharp, sparkling attack and timbre of brass combined with the sheer breadth and text of the choir — the interplay of those two textures is absolutely fascinating to me. While I have written extensively for both choir and brass, this is the first time I’ve written a work for both combined.
Each movement draws on a single word or phrase — “Gloria in excelsis deo”, “Alleluia” and “Hosanna in excelsis”. I wanted to continue that thread of Latin text on this program, and as someone who grew up Catholic, these words instantly connect me to a deep and rich spiritual tradition. These works are meant to be joyous and contemplative – in praise of God. These works also connect to the Hindustani musical tradition, as each movement is in a different raag (melodic framework): Bageshri, Pratiksha and Megh respectively. Just as music for choir and brass grew out of the Catholic church, Indian classical raga grew out of the Hindu religious practice. This music interweaves the richness of both.
Recording
A commercial recording of this work will be released in the coming months. If you would like to hear an archival recording for programming purposes, one is available here.
Premiere/Performances
This work was commissioned by Cathedral Choral Society, and premiered by Cathedral Choral Society, conducted by Steven Fox, on March 10 2024.
