Misterium Tremendum
Michael Kaulkin
About this work: Winner of the San Francisco Conservatory's Highsmith Composition Prize in 2000, Misterium Tremendum was premiered by the Conservatory Orchestra, and performed by the Oakland East Bay Symphony in 2003.
In Misterium Tremendum the listener is pulled on a journey through space and time, from nearly imperceptible lows to earth-shattering highs. Chromatic, atmospheric and aggressive gestures are contrasted with lyrical passages and moments of soaring exhilaration.
The emotional subtext of the piece draws on the awe one feels when contemplating the scope of the universe or the history of time. For some this is a feeling of joy or exhilaration, and for others perhaps, dread. This piece explores those conflicting emotions.
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Year composed: 2000
Duration: 00:13:00
Ensemble type: Orchestra:Unknown
Instrumentation: 2 Flute, 2 Oboe, 2 Clarinet, 2 Bassoon, 4 Horn in F, 3 Trumpet, 3 Trombone, 1 Tuba, 2 Percussion (General), 2 Violin, 1 Viola, 1 Cello, 1 Double bass, 1 Harp