The Dancing Turtle for reader, flute and string quintet

Abstract

The Dancing Turtle (1999) was written to celebrate the multicultural heritage of Louisiana. Cajun tunes, harmonic and melodic elements derived from New Orleans blues, and musical ideas from other world cultures comprise the basic body of the work.

The piece employs an adaptation of a Cajun folk tale by the composer’s wife and professional librarian, Judy Constantinides. Composed for reader, flute, and string quintet, the work received its premiere and numerous repeat performances at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library System branches in June 1999 as part of a series of programs entitled “Let the Good Music Roll!” Judy Constantinides was the reader and the musical part was performed by members of the Louisiana Sinfonietta under the direction of the composer.