Four Miniatures

4 Miniatures was commissioned in 2000 by Robert Sulivan (Associate Principal Trumpet of the New York Philharmonic) for a CD entitled “Kaleidoscope” on the Summit Record label (Summit 317). I wanted to write a collection of short movements all very distinct yet tied together in various ways. The first movement Fanfare mixes the elements of a trumpet fanfare with a more lyrical quality. Haunting echo’s and short repeated musical phrases are interspersed throughout. Intermezzo is a waltz with running eighth notes in the piano over which the trumpet sings a long sensual melody. Canto is rather free in form with much dialogue between both instruments. There’s a lofty transparent quality in this movement that reminds me of the Chopin Nocturnes for piano. Tarantella is a quick six-eight romp that passes ideas between the two players and brings the suite to a joyful conclusion. Joseph Turrin, Nov. 2010, Clifton, USA