From the recording Choral
Vespers (2015)
text: A.A. Milne " Vespers"
performed by the Walnut Hill Choir
conducted by Jonathan Richter
"Vespers” is the title of my second choral piece. Is is based on the poem with the same title by A.A.Milne (1882-1956). I wrote it in October of 2014 and it took me approximatively a month to finish it. I set this poem to music because it talks about Winnie the Pooh and I have had a childhood fascination with Winnie the Pooh: I have a Winnie the Pooh teddy bear. I got it the day I was born. Setting the text of “Vespers” was pretty special because I was able to find inspiration in my childhood. I was inspired to start writing choral music on a subject that touches on the composer’s childhood after performing with the Youth Chorale at the New England Conservatory Preparatory Program (under the baton of Jonathan Richter), John Corigliano’s “ Fern Hill” based on Dylan Thomas’ poem. “Vespers” is a SAATB choral piece (for bass, alto 1 and 2, tenor and soprano), written in a classical style with hints of jazz harmony inspired by Bill Evans.