Mystic Voices

Description

This is a driving and energetic work that showcases all the sections of the ensemble. The bold theme is presented in the first Violins, and after the first statement, it is repeated with the Violas playing a clever counterline.

Program Notes

I was trying to capture the image of worlds gone by with Mystic Voices so the playing should feel percussive and on top of the beat. There are certainly passages that call for a more lyrical approach, especially when the low strings carry the line in the B section. But overall, this is a driving and rhythmically active piece that should be played aggressively. Have your students dig into the accented notes and play with energy. Following an eight-measure introduction that sets up the E minor tonality the first Violins have the first statement of the bold A theme. The Violas play an important role as they present the counter line to the main melody in the second section. Be sure to make the most of the contrasting dynamics in measure 74 to make the ending as dramatic as possible.