Burning Sled

for string orchestra (1983)

Dedicated to the composer's parents and premiered by the Philadelphia Orchestra on 18 January 1983, conducted by William Smith. Daniel Webster of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote that 'the piece has, in its three movements, a theatrical flow from the jagged opening, through several short scenes for solo violin and cello, to a gradual lengthening of melodic lines to the strongly flowing final prayer. The progress from emotional pitch to pitch is direct and unhurried. The solo instruments take roles that are songful. In the second movement, the two sing independently but in close dialogue over the others. The resolution of the prayer itself, with the cello playing against a shimmer of high violins, is a deft stroke that gives it all a satisfying close.' Read more>>>