Will Rowe

Four horns, strings, and percussion

Romance is a new take on an old form. While the traditional Romance is a single movement and deals with the kind of gushing and unrequited love that was in vogue during the 19^th century, Romance is really only a Romance in name. In four movements instead of one, it takes a longer, harder, more contemporary look at love and dating, and explores some of the less idealistic intricacies involved in finding the kind of romance that the Romantics sought to depict. Historically, there was very little concept of dating until the 20^th century, however the majority of Romances were composed before dating became the norm.

The first movement, The Sea, illustrates the allegory of "always more fish in the sea" and different impressions of being single, though in the context of actual sea imagery. The first section is very bright, floaty, and shimmering, depicting the sea closest to the surface, while the two following sections descend into different depths of the sea. The second section is mellow, bubbly, and content, while the final section is dark, sparse and murky.

The second movement, *swipe*, is a more narrative movement structured around the use of dating apps. Over the course of the movement, there are numerous, matches, rejections, and chats of varying chemistry, as well as a lackluster date between a solo horn and solo viola.

The third movement, RED FLAG, is exactly what it sounds like. Sometimes a relationship gets off to a great start before irreconcilable differences create a toxic environment for one or both parties. While the movement has its schmaltzy and sweet moments, the counterpoint and textures prod each other until the movement finally culminates in various alarm sounds.

The fourth movement, Au Naturale, is an antidote to the previous, cynical movements. While the title has a double meaning, considering the movement’s abundance of natural horn techniques, it has less to do with being physically naked, but more to do with being vulnerable, honest, and open with someone. Using the orchestra in a sparser role, the texture is closer to chamber music, and creates a clear and intimate texture to suit the idea of two people contentedly being themselves together.

Romance was commissioned by the Skylark Quartet and the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra, and premiered in May 2017.