Elements (Petite Symphony) Brian Balmages

This medium-length four-movement work is structured in the same form as a traditional symphony (though much shorter) and corresponds with specific elements. Air, the first movement has a minimalistic quality to it and the entire movement develops around a four-note motif. The second movement, Water, is very impressionistic and describes a quiet body of water with a glass-like surface. The third movement, Earth, is a light and playful scherzo that pays homage to Holst's Mercury from The Planets. The final movement, Fire, is aggressive and relentless as dissonance and rhythm become the focus before a wildly powerful fugue ensues. Dramatic and engaging!