Linear Motion explores a persistent ostinato figure throughout its entirety. Such through-composed use of a perpetual rhythmic pattern establishes contact with a Baroque Prelude or Toccata. Sometimes the ostinato dominates the texture whereas at other times it provides background atmosphere. The slow harmonic rhythm provides a spacious context for the exploration of textural and rhythmic details. Scored for woodwinds, brass, percussion and four double basses the work roughly conforms to a standard wind ensemble instrumentation but calls for the double basses in order to provide a uniquely dark and dense coloring. The music's predominate mood is one of youthful energy and restlessness. |