Program

Crystal Alexander Octet No. 2, The Open Road

Marc Mellits Splinter
– Cherry
– River Birch
– Weeping Willow
– Red Pine

Program Notes

Octet No. 2 – The Open Road

The Open Road is a lovely jaunt inspired by a summer road trip from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, OR, spent camping in state and national parks. My mother used to take us on a road trip every summer and I have lots of fond memories and continue this tradition when I can. This trip was magical and introspective. In the mornings I was taken with the observation that the birds sounded different than the ones native to my home state of Texas. The piece begins with aleatoric motives referencing four species of birds from the Pacific coast, a Stellar’s Jay, Spotted Towhee, Oak Titmouse, and a Bewick’s Wren. These motives gradually fade as a fast paced melody excitedly takes listeners through the forests over the Golden Gate Bridge, and up the Pacific coast. With an adventurous spirit, this piece is a celebration of soul-searching through the calm wonder of nature on the open road.  This piece was commissioned by Tetractys New Music and Austin Saxophone Ensemble for the Here Be Monsters 2026 festival.
– Crystal Alexander

Splinter

I composed “Splinter” in 2014. The different lines of the instruments fit together like pieces of a puzzle. Trees can be magical to me: each movement, or “splinter,” can be seen coming from and inspired by a different type. Together they form the overall tapestry of sound by each supplying a branch, or leaf, to the overall musical tree.
-Marc Mellits

For example: “Cherry” catches our attention with its graceful, light blossoms and powerfully echoes their shape in the durable wood. “Weeping Willow” delicately bends and sways in the wind. “River Birch” gives regal shade to those floating by on the river, while the exceptionally dense and hard trunk of a “Sugar Maple” supports its soaring 80-foot height.