Concerto for Horn and Orchestra (Original composition)

Abstract

This three movement work, in roughly the classical concerto mold, is designed to explore the combinatorial and soloistic color possibilities of the horn with a chamber orchestra accompaniment. This instrument-oriented composition is reflected in both the structure and substance throughout. Each individual movement focuses on a different aspect of the horns capabilities (broad range in movement I, "singing" quality in movement II, and virtuosic potential in movement III). Harmonies and motives are likewise derived from the horn itself, including it's historic "hunting-horn" origins, as well as the chromatic potential of the natural overtone series. This work was commissioned by the Catalina Chamber Orchestra with soloist Jacqueline Sellers, and premiered in Tucson, Arizona on March 7, 1993.