Piano Sonata (2002)
"Footprints in the Sand"
Inst:
Piano
Duration:
15 minutes
Premiere:
Jennifer Muñiz, piano; Manhattan School of Music on May 16, 2003
Other Performances:
Jennifer Muniz, piano; Sauder Hall, Goshen College, November 5, 2011 Jeffrey Jacob, piano, New Ariel Recordings (World Premiere Recording)
The first piano sonata is a one-movement work that takes on a loose ABA form. It reflects the spirit of a poem entitled, Footprints in the Sand, which tells the story of a journey, where one is carried by another in times of trouble. The opening of the piece is an expression of a vast space, followed by a personal utterance. This and its development comprise the A material. The second section (B) breaks out with ecstatic ascending runs that express an uncontainable energy. The musical material creates a sense of struggle and obstacle that is solved by the common interaction of both themes. This piece is dedicated to the composer’s wife, Jennifer Muñiz.