• 2(pic)+pic.2+ca.2+Ebcl+bcl(cbcl).2+cbn/4.3.2+btn.1/timp.5perc/cel.hp/str
  • Piano
  • 24 min

Programme Note

Composer Note:

The idea behind my second piano concerto was inspired by the Eastern mythological creature called the Red Garuda. The Red Garuda is a large bird that travels continuously — it never stops flying, and never needs to measure its flight or its distance. In mythology the Garuda represents the personal principle of not having to restrict how far one can travel or go in life’s journey. It symbolizes an absolute freedom, if you will, and its flight is not dependent on conventional limitations.

In writing the work, I envisioned a huge bird flying over different types of landscapes. The opening of the piece presents a feeling of the bird’s appearance and its flight. This introduction is followed by a number of variations. These are based not only on the musical content of the opening, but are also based on different landscapes, with each one characterized by the traditional elements of fire, water, and earth (combined with wind).

—Peter Lieberson

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