things that drift (2021)

For string orchestra
Duration: 3 minutes
Written for the New York Youth Symphony as part of the NYYS Composition Program

Program note:

things that drift, written in 2021 for the New York Youth Symphony, reflects images of both abstract and physical things that drift. Although drifting is most often thought of as a movement away from something, frequently with lack of control by the viewer that would describe an object as drifting, the loose nature of this movement may involve hovering and even swaying between positions. As a result, drifting in the sense captured in this piece travels both ways, shifting distant and close. Of particular interest in the conceptualization of things that drift was the uncertain sense of direction drifting carries, while seemingly heading somewhere special and significant nonetheless. Specific physical images that were considered in the formation of this piece include paper airplanes, balloons, dead leaves, candle flames, clouds, floating and water lanterns, dandelion fluff, planets, sticks in a river, waves on a shore, birds, sunlight, and people. Among more abstract concepts were those of destiny, life cycles, relationships between people, places, animals, and objects, as well as memories.

Recording:

Performance by the New York Youth Symphony
Amelia Krinke, conductor
DiMenna Center
May 2, 2021