Cover photo courtesy of Hunter Nguy
Solemn Bliss
This work is characterized by the juxtaposition between reflection, longing, and chaos. “Solemn Bliss” is a bit of an oxymoron. It implies something serious and dignified yet somehow positive and cheerful. In a way, it’s quite ambiguous. It’s not always easy to definitively label experiences and emotions. Such that there’s always light that shines through dark moments.
Premiered performance by the Plattsburgh Clarinet Choir on August 2nd, 2025.
Additional Information
Instrumentation
1 – E♭ Alto Clarinet 1
1 – E♭ Alto Clarinet 2
1 – E♭ Alto Clarinet 3
2 – E♭ Alto Clarinet 4
1 – B♭ Bass Clarinet 1
1 – B♭ Bass Clarinet 2
1 – B♭ Bass Clarinet 3 (Low C optional)
2 – B♭ Bass Clarinet 4 (div. a2) (Low C required)
1 – E♭ Contra-alto Clarinet 1
1 – E♭ Contra-alto Clarinet 2 (Low D required, Low C optional)
1 – B♭ Contrabass Clarinet 1 (Low C optional)
2 – B♭ Contrabass Clarinet 2 (Low C required, Low B optional)
Additional Parts:
1 – F Basset Horn 1 (Alto Clarinet 3 transposed)
1 – F Basset Horn 2 (Alto Clarinet 4 transposed)
1 – E♭ Octocontra-alto Clarinet (Low C optional) (opt.)
1 – B♭ Octocontrabass Clarinet (Low C optional) (opt.)
