Mackinaw Ekphrasis
for two horns, two trombones, percussion, keyboaard, violin, viola, cello, bass and projected visuals (2009; 15 min.) – Images by Kenneth Kashian
An ekphrasis is a response in words to a visual image, and often takes the form of a poem. The title of this composition expands the definition, since my response to Kenneth Kashian’s photographs is musical rather than verbal. Kashian’s images, part of a longstanding project, show the Mackinaw River and its environs in central Illinois, where both he and I reside. The overall structure of Mackinaw Ekphrasis, reflecting the progression of seasons, emerged naturally as I chose the images which resonated most strongly with me.
I. Mirror Loom * Mario J. Pelusi, cond.
III. Inkbrush (Year’s End) * Mario J. Pelusi, cond.