“Water” (Filippo Lepre)

Commissioned by the Glass Clouds Ensemble, 2022

The water understands
Civilization well;
It wets my foot, but prettily,
It chills my life, but wittily,
It is not disconcerted,
It is not broken-hearted:
Well used, it decketh joy,
Adorneth, doubleth joy:
Ill used, it will destroy,
In perfect time and measure
With a face of golden pleasure
Elegantly destroy.

– “Water” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

“Water” is inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem of the same name, depicting the dual powers of water as both a healer and destroyer. The piece acts as a cautionary message regarding humanity’s relationship with nature during our modern global environmental crisis. My musical choices are closely linked to Emerson’s text, favoring expression born from intimate dialogue between the singer and the two violins. The piece opens with a maddening drip-drop of water, a timbral motive linked to the frenzied vocal line in later moments; however, the piece retains awareness of the traditions of lyric singing and string playing throughout. – Filippo Lepre

Avaloch Sessions

Improvisation in three parts, recorded at Avaloch Farm

Our exercises in improvisation were inspired by Pauline Oliveros’ sonic meditations, or “recipes for listening” (NY Times). We recorded this series of improvisations at Avaloch in dialogue with our surroundings, inspired by the morning and evening rustlings around our studio in rural New Hampshire.