The Melodic Life
The Melodic Life is a study in “theme and variations” for family and educational concerts. It employs a “follow that melody” approach that traces the life of a lighthearted melody named Bob from early childhood to middle age.
Stops are made at a variety of life events including going to school, playing sports, and job experiences, such as being in a circus and a Broadway show. Bob eventually achieves stardom by appearing in movies. The melody’s wide emotional range is thoroughly explored including when Bob falls in love with a countermelody.
The Melodic Life hones the listening skills of the audience while fostering a deeper appreciation for melodic use and development.
The proverbial message “variety is the spice of life” will ring in the listeners’ ears as well as their hearts.
Instrumentation: 3(pic),2(eh),2,2 - 4,3,3,1 - Timp+2, Harp, Strings, Narrator.
Timing: 22 minutes
The Melodic Life was premiered in 2006 at the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music in Santa Cruz, California. Marin Alsop, for whom the work was written and dedicated, conducted the festival orchestra, and the author narrated.
Bob appeared, more or less, as himself.
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