Seasons of Our Time

Description

Flute, Piano — SEASONS OF OUR TIME was commissioned by and gratefully dedicated to my dear friend Marya Martin and the Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival in Long Island, NY. It exists in two scorings, a chamber version for flute with string quartet and harpsichord or piano, and the present edition for flute and piano. Written during the Covid pandemic, SEASONS OF OUR TIME was premiered at an outdoor concert in August 2021. I have collaborated with Marya for many years, including a CD with many of my flute works.Reflecting the unprecedented experience we all faced during the tragic and harrowing pandemic, the work is in three movements. The first begins in innocence as the possibilities of life are expressed with lilting and playful melodies tossed between the instruments, as the flute joyfully sings above. The second movement is poignant and emotional, as sadness and tragedy is felt. Here the flute sings a lyrical, heartfelt melody over arpeggiated gestures, reflecting the tragedy ensuing at the time it was written. The final movement is resolute – strong, full, and rich – as one way or another, we get through the harrowing and sometimes tragic experiences with determination and strength. The instruments all sing with the flute, bringing the piece to a joyful, energetic, and resolute finale. The three-movement SEASONS OF OUR TIME was composed in 2021 as an inspirational work amid the Covid pandemic. Season of Hope opens the work with innocent charm, while the poignant Season of Loss introduces sadness and tragedy. Ewazen’s optimism powers through in Season of Renewal with resolved determination and strength. Originally scored for flute with string quartet and harpsichord, SEASONS OF OUR TIME is an ideal 17-minute recital work for flute and piano.