The Iris

for symphony orchestra & treble choir | 7’
version for two pianos available

World Premiere & Recording

Ad hoc orchestra & choir
Patrick Valentino, conductor
Ford Hall
Ithaca, NY
April 20, 2012
Patrick Valentino, conductor

Instrumentation

3 Flutes (III = picc.)
3 Oboes (III = E. Hn.)
3 Clarinets in A (III = B. Cl.)
3 Bassoons (III = C. Bn.)

4 Horns
3 Trumpets
3 Trombones
1 Tuba

Timpani
3 Percussion
Harp
Piano

Treble Voices (12 voices or more)

Strings

*A boys’ choir, women’s chorale, or combination of the two may be used for the treble voices depending on which is readily available to the orchestra. If possible, one treble part should be placed in the left wing and the other in the right wing, in order to create an antiphonal effect.

Program Note

For my friend, Laura Smith
(September 29, 1990 - June 2010)

Well’s Falls
June 19, 2010 - May 20, 2011

In late afternoon, we threw sunflowers,
Irises, and lilies, your favorites.
The flow swept them away in the sun’s gleam,
But one Iris defied the tide’s powers
With grace for five miraculous minutes,
Then submerged, surrendering to the stream.
A year later, I returned to the falls
Where memories and thoughts of you still lurk.
Unchanging trees with shallow roots listened
To the dull roar echoing off the walls.
Nearby, tiny streams trickled, latticework
Along the forest floor. The ground glistened.
A rainbow stretched across the broad cliff base.
Everywhere I looked, I could see your face.

For rental, perusal, or other inquiries, please email clarosa16@gmail.com