“…profoundly meditative and exquisitely restrained. Much of it has the feel of classical settings of the Latin mass, but it is distinctly aboriginal in tone…the lines could stand as a statement of will by an artist supremely confident of his intent…the whole orchestra sounds at times to be riding a bolt of lightning.”
Winter Moons
Ballet Score for Chamber Orchestra and Narrator - 40'
1(Pic.) 0 0 2 - 2 1 0 0; 1Perc. Pno. Stgs.
Commissioned by Dr. Patricia Tate/University of Wyoming.
Premiered February 18, 1992
Winter Moons is a ballet based upon American Indian legends from the Northern Plains and Rocky Mountains. It is in four movements and is performed with a live storyteller to guide the audience thought the different legends.
The title of the ballet is derived from the idea that American Indian stories are best told during the full moons of the wintertime. Winter Moons was commissioned by and is dedicated to my mother, Dr. Patricia Tate.
I. Opening, Winter Moon, Puberty Blessing Songs
II. The Indian Spirit at Mesa Falls
III. Chief Red Plume and His Quest, The Medicine Wheel, The Origin of Bitterroot
IV. She Runs with the Wind, Finale
