Since composing the opening of Spirare, which features several techniques that emulate air, I have associated the piece with breathing and an attempt to achieve a state of tranquility. Active textures persist for most of the piece until the ending, where the active textures, now more subdued, accompany the clarinet as it slowly alternates between two multiphonics, like slow, meditative breaths.
Spirare was written for CULTIVATE 2018 and was premiered by the Music from Copland House ensemble at the Merestead estate in Mount Kisco, NY on June 10, 2018.
Pala Garcia (violin)
Carol McGonnell (clarinet)
Alexis Pia Gerlach (violoncello)