Program Note for Divertimento (1990)
for piano duo
Written in July and August of 1990, the creation of
Divertimento was accompanied by a number of (for me) unique circumstances.
Before writing the first note, I already knew what all the other pieces
on the program would be, their general character, as well as their exact
order (mine would be first). In light of this knowledge (and also because
the past seven years had seen the creation of a series of introspective
and emotionally dark works) it seemed appropriate to write a piece of a
light, entertaining character -- another unique experience for me. I took
advantage of these circumstances to satisfy a long-standing desire to write
a tonal work.
Divertimento is a true-blue rondo: A B A C A. The C section, which
features an occasionally rude quarrel between the two pianos over what
its character should be, gives way to a brief development section and retransition,
leading to the final restatement of the rondo theme. Of all the work's
unique aspects, the one I appreciated most, I think, was the opportunity
to not take myself so seriously.
Divertimento is dedicated to my daughter, Genevieve, a sweet and
radiant child who has taught me much.