Concerto for Bassoon and Piano

Abstract

The Concerto for Bassoon (1996) was written in two versions--piano and orchestra. The movements, played uninterrupted, are based on specific designs. “Spirals” uses continuous ostinato patterns that spiral, built upon thirds, with frequent abrupt changes in tonal centers. “Planes (Song)” is based on various layers of sound supporting a Greek folk-like tune (song) by the bassoon. “Pendulums” recalls the beginning when the spiral motion returns in the opposite direction--thus imitating the action of a pendulum.