Bridges to Span Adversity

Description

Harpsichord — In September of 1989, we were all saddened by the tragic death of Jan DeGaetani.xa0 It affected me deeply because we had been close friends; she had premiered my “Symphony No. 5” as well as my “String Quartet No.6” and of course was my wonderful colleague on the faculty of the Eastman School.xa0 Jan’s life was an inspiration.xa0 She was a great artist and a most inspiring and courageous person.xa0 There was nothing maudlin or depressing about her even when she fought desperately for life during the last few months before her death.xa0 As we all mourned her premature passing, I was moved to write this short work which is hoped will reflect her courage, her strength, and her beauty as a person and an artist.The six-minute work is divided into two contrasting sections.xa0 A slow beginning gives way to a vivacious second part, which is to reaffirm her life – that of optimism and industry, a true inspiration for all who knew her.—Samuel Adler Composed in two movements: the first, warm and soothing; the second, rhythmic and sprightly. For studios, colleges, conservatories, professionals. Difficult.