Updated Recording: Then: for those who are no more (string quartet)

A rendering of a piece always misses the mark in many ways. You’re asking technology to do what humans do much better. I’ve not been satisfied with renders of this string quartet. Recently I’ve been using a new technology that allows me to get much closer to my intentions. Still not perfect, but I think we’re at the point when any ensemble considering the piece will have a fair idea of what they’re getting into.

This piece is dark and contemplative, in keeping with its title. Please click the button below to learn more, listen to the piece and request a score.

Concert Announcement: Premiere

I’m happy to announce that my Bagatelles for Clarinet and Viola will be getting its first performance in lovely Eastport, Maine on August 24, 2024. Performers will be Brian Schuth, clarinet and Anne Black, viola. I’m looking forward to meeting Brian in upcoming virtual conference, but I’ve known Anne for ages. She’s a stalwart of new music in Boston (as well as early music). You can learn more about the concert here. It will also feature music of Stravinsky, Hovhaness, Clarke and Maconchy.

I’ve written a little about Bagatelles in previous posts. It was composed for Russell and Leslie Harlow, both excellent musicians, in Park City. Sadly, Leslie (viola) died before they were able to perform the piece. Russell has given his blessing to this performance and I appreciate his generosity of spirit. I think that the description of the music on the concert site is spot on and captures just what my intentions were:

“Utah composer Michael Carnes’ Five Bagatelles, for clarinet and viola, will receive its World Premiere performance at EAC, interspersing a more contemporary set of light, playful dance movements with two haunting, chant-like pieces.”

— Eastport Arts Center

If you’re in that part of the world, I hope you can attend.

Recording (and revision) of Three Scenes for Woodwind Quintet

Back in spring of 2023, I completed a woodwind quintet. It was quickly programmed on a chamber music series in Salt Lake City (Intermezzo Chamber Music) and given its premiere on July 31 of 2023. Players were excellent. As with many first performances, it’s rocky in spots, but still worth a listen.

I also realized that there were a few small modifications I needed to make in the first movement and I’ve done that.

If you visit the page for the piece here you can listen to the first performance. You can also see a video of the revision while following the score.

At some point there will be a full video of the first performance as well, although I’m not sure when that will be. I’ll post a link whenever that time comes.