The Swaying Mountains

Ailon G.

• Artist Statement

  “The Swaying Mountains” is a duet for French horn and piano that explores contrast between energetic, heavily accented passages representing storms surrounding the mountains and slower passages that represent the imaginary swaying of mountains. It includes adventurous harmonies and various extended techniques for the horn player, including flutter tongue, multiphonics, and usage of stopped horn in a combination that exemplifies the contrasts central to the piece. The difference between the chaotic nature of the environment around the mountains and the peaceful, swaying nature of the monolithic rock swaying with the wind ends with a peaceful fading away, as the storm resides and the mountains persist through time.

• Creative Statement

  When I write music I find inspiration in the mundanities that we often forget; it helps me make sense of experiences and emotions. I love when my music resonates with people, from friends to complete strangers. It is both a personal process and a way to socialize with others.