Catherine Neville

Horn and Piano

Composer's Notes:

1. Heterogeneous Mixture

In the western tonal music system, there are only two sets of whole tone scales, separated by a half step. In Heterogenous Mixture, the two whole tone scales are used freely, interacting with each other but never fully able to combine, like oil and water. The result is music that is at times highly chromatic, at other moments one or the other whole tone set takes prominence. The story of their interactions ends with a major chord, which is not possible in either of the whole tone scales. Whether that means the two scales have finally created a homogenous mixture is left to the listener to decide.

2. Andante

A theme from Brahms’ Trio op. 40 is the subject of a flowing and thoughtful central movement. The piece pays homage to the beauty of Brahms' theme and the timbre of the horn.

3. Rondo

A romp in 6/8 time ends the sonata, with flourishes and humor. Playful and fast, this movement creates a sense of joy.