SKU: PR.144404380

UPC: 680160030644.

In the mid-1990s in Memphis, Tennessee, the Alabama cellist Craig Hultgren performed my trio Two Poems (1989) with such dedication, brilliance, and comprehension that I vowed to write him a solo work in gratitude for his labors. Chambers of the Twilight is the result. The single-movement essay is through-composed -- it was written in one long day -- and entirely constructed from the juxtapositions, repetitions, and variations of three brief gestures announced by the soloist in the opening measures. The separation and congealing of these three musical events -- alternatively dramatic, melodic/misterioso, and violent -- provide the genesis for all of the ensuing sonic material. An extended coda -- marked delicato e lontano in the score -- gives way to large pizzicato chords which bring the piece to a close. The work exploits fully the dynamic range and registral capabilities of the cello, placing considerable demands on the dexterity and stamina of the soloist. Chambers of the Twilight is approximately fifteen minutes in duration. The score was composed on April 2, 2001, in Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida, and was written for the 2001 Hultgren Solo Cello Works Biennial. It is composed in loving memory of my maternal grandfather Ernest A. Pilgrim, a fine sculptor and bridge-builder, and is dedicated, with thanks, to Mr. Hultgren.

SKU: HL.121336

UPC: 884088921996. 9.0x12.0x0.191 inches.

Originally commissioned for the celebration of Tennessee's “Homecoming '86,” Jug Blues & Fat Pickin' is inspired by recordings of the Memphis Jug Band, the most recorded and perhaps most popular of the jug bands to spring up on Memphis' Beale Street in the late 1920's, and also bluegrass banjo pickin'. Freund's composition is a unique musical offering that melds “blues elements” with minimalist technique. (Grade 5) Dur: 8:00.

SKU: P2.80151

Composer Kevin McKenzie says, Axis deals with 2 themes that were inspired by the music of Dmitri Shostakovich and their interaction with each other while new thematic motifs are added throughout. This piece was written for the University of Memphis Tuba Ensemble's second CD entitled Axis, under the direction of Kevin Sanders. First premiered at the Tennessee's Music Educator Conference in 2014, this work was also performed at ITEC that same year..