Aftermath for Bassoon and Piano (2003), character piece for the events of 9/11

Published by Roncorp, Northeastern Publications; Dur: 5:58

Aftermath is a short essay for bassoon and piano and was conceived shortly after the events of September 11, 2001. The initial ideas were set out at that time, but the completion of the piece was delayed by several other projects. It was finally finished for presentation by the composer and bassoonist at the 2003 meeting of the International Double Reed Society. The new work rounded out a program of my works featuring the bassoon.

Aftermath is a personal reaction to the horrific events of that day and the world left behind in its wake. There are many contemplative and dark moments in the piece contrasted with plaintive cries of anguish and wails of pain. The total lack of sense, logic or reasoning is also reflected in a section of frantic, psychotic chaos. The work ends with a quiet moment of morose acceptance, only to be tinged by one final questioning tone from the piano.

This work is available through Northeastern Publications, Roncorp division.
http://www.nemusicpub.com/