Vision of Orpheus
David Leisner
About this work:
Commissioned by Twentieth Century Unlimited in Santa Fe, this dramatic 5-movement work was given a standing ovation at its premiere with Leisner and the St. Lawrence String Quartet. Based on the Orpheus myth and a painting by Mark Spencer, the piece deals with Orpheus' plea to the gods of the underworld, their deliberation and decision to release Euridice, and the ultimate despair of Orpheus in the end as he loses her. The work is in a tonal chromatic language, at times lyrical or
rhythmically incisive or eerie and disturbing, as at the end. Interesting, challenging parts for all instruments.
Year composed: 2000
Duration: 00:17:00
Ensemble type: Chamber or Jazz Ensemble, Without Voice:Other Combinations, 2-5 players
Instrumentation: 2 Violin, 1 Viola, 1 Cello, 1 Guitar (Classical/Acoustic)
Instrumentation notes: For guitar and string quartet.