Awake O Joy :

Abstract

Awake O Joy, a single movement trio for flute, viola, and piano, is written in a neo-romantic style emphasizing careful crafting of thematic relationships. Generally fast in tempo, it is set in an arch form of easily discernible sectional pattern whose middle section serves a developmental as well as contrasting purpose. Its melodies are cast in tonal designs of periodic form and are often unified motivically. Its harmonies make use of the brighter affects of tertian structures while creating a strong sense of tonal motion and formal articulation. The rhythms of Awake O Joy are often highly syncopated, asymmetric patterns, the result of changing meters or irregular groupings within a given bar. Making use of some mannerisms peculiar to the vernacular of twentieth century American Popular music, Awake O Joy strives to be accessible without losing the compositional integrity of a well-developed musical discourse.