form reform (2017)
pipe organ - 7 min
written for Peace Lutheran Church (South Haven, MI) in observance of the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation
form reform was composed for the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. it utilizes the first stanza of Martin Luther's hymn EIN FESTE BURG (A Mighty Fortress), presenting it with heavily altered and syncopated rhythm. this piece also makes use of large cluster chords, constructing and deconstructing them throughout.
program notes:
A Mighty Fortress (EIN FESTE BURG) was written by Martin Luther (1483-1546) whose 95 Theses that challenged aspects of the Roman Catholic Church initiated the Protestant Reformation. "form reform" utilizes the first stanza, heavily altering the rhythm and iterating the contour through cluster chords. fragments of the stanza also appear throughout the piece but is never presented as clearly as in its final iteration. the translated text is presented in the score for the performer's benefit at the stanza's first appearance.
a note on registration:
the timbres between manuals are meant to be similar but decidedly different throughout the work. this should give the effect on an echo (and reverse echoes) which is representative of an idea forming and reforming on a micro-level.
the score can be downloaded for free. please note that the music is protected by copyright. if you'd like to play the piece, feel free to get in touch with me here.
