Waves like Glass
Duration:7'
Instrumentation: 2.2.2.2.1+solo1.1.1.1.1
Premiere:Year of Composition: 2016 |
Waves like Glass was the first piece I composed during my time in graduate school. It was written during the end of the 2016 US Election cycle and was finished just after the votes had officially been counted. This piece not only encompasses the feelings of isolation and fear that I was experiencing both socially and politically at that time, but specifically highlights the beauty and struggle towards truth that I was so desperate to achieve. The first few months after moving to Canada were lonely and uncertain, and I found myself seeking comfort in the incredible beauty that surrounded me.
One particular fall night, I found myself exceptionally frustrated – both with school and the general state of things both where I lived and abroad – so I just started walking. Soon enough, I found myself on a nearly deserted beach at sunset. Sitting on a large driftwood log, I sat and watched as the silvery light faded behind the mountains across the bay; and, after returning to my tiny sky-rise apartment, I sat by the window looking up at the moon and began to form the idea for this work. Though the work was not performed until much later, every time I listen to it, I am transported right back to that beach, observing the immeasurable beauty and overarching comfort that this world is still able to offer. |