Thomas L. Read

Flute, Clarinet, and Bassoon

Composer's Note:
As implied by its title, the music of my Caprice en Trio is fanciful and somewhat mutable in texture and style, setting "learned" counterpoint against free lyricism while also encompassing tonal and non-tonal harmonies and conjuring humorous and bizarre episodes.
All rhythmic and melodic material necessary for the entire piece is drawn systematically from the initial seven-measure phrase. Nevertheless, the music is composed to sound as a freewheeling musical discourse between independent minded performers- of whom great virtuosity and careful preparation are required for effective delivery in concert.
The dramatic curve of the entire structure is not readily aligned with any traditional pattern. Disparate sections occur successively, or are overlapped and occasionally heard simultaneously. In the penultimate episode an extended flute "impromptu," accompanied, thoughtfully, by clarinet and bassoon, is followed by a lively, propulsive coda.
Caprice En Trio was commissioned by the VCME and composed in June, 2006.