Shadows

The title refers to the somewhat melancholy and introspective mood conveyed by the music. The work is divided into three movements without pause, the first being an introduction and scherzo. The introduction reveals the material found in each subsequent movement, and most importantly, the main motive. The scherzo is aggressive and intense music. The strings are treated percussively with pizzicatos and driving rhythm. The second movement is a fugue, utilizing the main motive as the subject. The mood is expressive and warm. The third movement is marked “Postlude.” The music is intended to be contemplative, like a deep conversation, ending in a state of profound thought.