Song of the Quaking Aspens
Kevin Lau‘s brand new work takes its name from a species of tree called Populus Tremuloides (also known as the ‘Quaking Aspen’), which grows in large colonies all over North America. Remarkably, the individual trees in these forest-like colonies are clones of one another: genetically identical offshoots of a single organism managed by a vast, subterranean root system. Building upon themes of interconnectedness and belonging, Lau has crafted a lush and evocative work. He has shared a few thoughts about his composition in the video below.
Known for their distinctive trembling leaves and bark marked by eyes, Quaking Aspen are native to this area, but also found in large colonies across North America,
This commission is dedicated to the memory of Mary and David Bullock, generously supported by their dear friend Linda Harvey, in celebration of Ottawa Chamberfest’s 30th Anniversary. Some of you may remember the Bullocks, who marked many of their own milestones – such as wedding anniversaries – by commissioning new works through Chamberfest. With their support, Chamberfest audiences were the first to hear new works by some of Canada’s most beloved composers including Marjan Mozetich, Patrick Cardy, and R. Murray Schafer. We remember the Bullocks with great fondness, and can’t think of a more fitting tribute to honour their legacy than to usher another new Canadian chamber work into existence. Please join us in thanking Linda Harvey for her vision and her generosity.
The world premiere of Song of the Quaking Aspens will be performed by the Ironwood Quartet and Philip Chiu as part of our 30th Anniversary Celebration with Ironwood Quartet, Philip Chiu, and Radia, on Thursday, August 8 at 7:00 PM, at Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre.
Composer Kevin Lau shares his thoughts about Song of the Quaking Aspens and its inspiration.
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