Genteel Dialogue for harp and percussion

Abstract

Genteel Dialogue (1986) was written for and dedicated to the composer’s colleagues at LSU, Hye-Yun Chung and John Raush. Although not a serial work, the piece is built upon a set of eight pitches that are stated at the very beginning of the piece by the harp. The work makes use of pentatonic sounds and varied ostinato patterns to slowly develop a simple melodic gesture. The tonal centers of F# and B are emphasized by the antique cymbals throughout the work.