Rondo for violin and piano

Rondo for violin and piano is a lively musical jaunt, a spark of energy, and a delightful moment designed to make you smile. Its inspiration stems from my friendship with violinist Geneviève Salamone. Our friendship developed out of several musical collaborations while both attending Forest Park High School (Woodbridge, Virginia). For many, these formative years of adolescence are infused with fleeting, creative impulses. It was at this time that the main melodic idea for the rondo was conceived.

This rondo theme is in the style of an upbeat saltarello that propels itself continually onward. Contrasting this theme is the slower, more contemplative interlude. While this section is tranquil in nature, it is imbued with shadowy harmonies and moments of unease. Later reprisals of the rondo’s central theme are consistently used for diverse dramatic effect–one moment bright, the next tumultuous. Finally, the theme takes on its most extroverted quality, bringing the piece to its decisive conclusion.