Overture to the Star Ritual
Matthew Baier
About this work:
Overture To The Star Ritual
By Matthew Baier
C.2004
Program Note
Inspiration for this work comes from a Japanese Buddhist tradition of observing the stars of the Big Dipper along with the North Star, which were once thought to be at the center of the universe. It is believed that offering prayers for the right alignment of these stars asserts a strong influence over ones life bringing good health, fortune and correct karma.
The commencement of this observance also coincides with the date of the winter or southern solstice, which occurs on the 21st or 22nd of December each year when the sun in farthest from the equator resulting in the shortest day of the year in the Northern hemisphere. In this work these two ideas are juxtaposed with that of the summer or northern solstice which occurs on the 21st or 22nd of June (the longest day of the year). The subsequent Yin and Yang in effect seeks to compare and contrast the striking balance between the arrays of human associations inherent in these events.
On its compositional level the melodic materials are derived from an 8 note original scale and resulting extended triadic harmony. This scale was then aligned and graphed with the phonetic alphabetical spelling of several words and phrases that I have associated with these events. These form the melodic themes and structure for the work. The overall form of the piece is in Arch form with the two solstices making a complete cycle and concluding with an extended coda based on the melodies produced by the original Japanese chant text.
Performance History
Commissioned by Marvin von Deck conductor of the North Jersey Symphony Orchestra 2004.
Version: 2004
Year composed: 2004
Duration: 00:13:08
Ensemble type: Orchestra:Standard Orchestra
Instrumentation: