Reverie of a Monk (for Chamber Ensemble and Dancer)

Abstract

“Reverie of a Monk” is a celebration of the arts. Composed for a chamber ensemble of nine players, dancer, and conductor, this programmatic work is inspired by a painting titled, Monk by the Sea by German Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich. Following the inspiration from this beautiful visual, I wrote an 80-page book as a back-story to the figure of the monk and his contemplations during one day at the beach depicted in the artwork. In turn, the music was composed, employing a variety of styles and techniques to portray the monk and his ponderings. Finally, the monk is portrayed by a dancer, combining with the musicians to emotionally explore conflict and resolution. The piece uses minimal, yet poignant, text: “O Domine, exaudi orationem meam” and “Pax” (O Lord, hear my prayer/ Peace), as the story is told primarily through the music itself. While there are no separate movements, the work does follow the chapter order from the book: “Lost in the Vast Expanse”, “Fear”, “Loneliness”, “Temptation and Guilt”, “Joy”, “Peace”, “A Full Heart”, and “A Place in the Universe.” The monk and his reflections on the joys and pains of life, and possibilities for the future, represent our shared struggles as human beings confronting an ever-evolving existence. Included here are the Conductor’s Score and an Appendix describing details regarding the compositional process.