A Symphony for the Seasons (2024) - ~20 Minutes

A Symphony for the Seasons is a symphonic setting of the Greek myth of the seasons, elegantly unfolding in four movements. Each movement brings to life the timeless story of Hades, Persephone, and Demeter, capturing the emotional essence of their tale through vivid orchestration and thematic development.

Movement 1: Behold! A Goddess with Hair like the Summer Sun

The symphony opens with a haunting horn solo, followed by a powerful brass statement that establishes the theme for Hades. This movement depicts Hades discovering Persephone in a sunlit field and becoming instantly enamored. The oboe introduces the intriguing discovery of the goddess, while the flute establishes Persephone's theme, embodying her grace and Hades' adoration. A spirited chase ensues, represented by fluttering flurries of notes and a dynamic interplay of melodies, culminating in Hades capturing Persephone and taking her to the underworld.

Movement 2: Hades and Dread Persephone

This movement transports listeners to the underworld, where Hades shows Persephone her new home. Muted brass and unique sounds, including singing and whistling, evoke the eerie inhabitants of the underworld. The moving accompaniment symbolizes the current of the River Styx, guiding Persephone through her new realm. The movement reaches a dramatic conclusion as Persephone consumes pomegranate seeds, sealing her fate as an underworld inhabitant.

Movement 3: The Woes of Demeter

In this movement, we experience Demeter's sorrow and desperation as she tirelessly searches for her missing daughter. The accompaniment continuously moves, reflecting Demeter's relentless search. The bassoon introduces Demeter's theme, and as the music swells, the brass conveys her determination. The climax is marked by a roar of anger, unleashing a cacophony that signifies the onset of eternal winter. A celeste evokes memories of Persephone, while low instrument solos depict Demeter's fatigue and determination as she continues her search.

Movement 4: The Return of Spring

The final movement begins with conflict, as Demeter confronts Hades and Persephone in the underworld to resolve her daughter's disappearance. Upon reaching an accord, the music depicts the rebirth of vegetation and nature, triumphing over the cold, barren winter. Themes from previous movements reappear in a delightful waltz as melodies pair and frolic through spring gardens. The symphony concludes in a vibrant, harmonic flurry, celebrating spring's return and the seasons' cyclical nature.