Melodies for Robert for Flute, Cello and Piano

To celebrate the life of flute player and war hero, Robert Vincent Jones, SDG Music Foundation commissioned Carter Pann to write this attractive trio for flute, cello and piano. As a bit of background, the foundation is a non-sectarian organisation that supports, preserves and creates sacred music in the biblical tradition of the highest level. Looking at their list of composers, one can see the commitment the foundation has to excellence in this musical genre. The premiere of this work was performed by The Heare Ensemble. There are two movements: Sing and Listen. The score is very clear in its instruction and adds multiple indications of intended pulse and suspended moments that Pann requires of the players. This is a deeply personal piece, lending itself to rich chords that harken to the ever-popular melodies that stir the American song tradition, but there isn't a clear or lengthy rhythmic phrase that one could hum after the performance. Much of the work meanders in thoughts and points to moments of deep contemplation that the players don't linger on for long. The conversation is amiable between the instruments in both movements, approachable, and very pleasing to play. A highly meditative new piece that won't offend, this work would be a lovely addition to a concert as relief or just as some music that would let the listener wander through pleasant chord structures and very yummy sounds from the instruments.