University of Wyoming Wind Symphony - Ross McIntosh, viola - Matthew Schlomer, conductor

“In recent works, I’ve become interested in music that creates a space for contemplation. Music that creates a journey between two points. The subject in this work is love as a timeless force. Its continuation in our lives beyond the grave, throughout time and space, and amidst the personal loss, difficulties, or ruins of our lives. The title is from the poem Love Among the Ruins by Robert Browning.

This is not a concerto in the traditional sense, but rather a work that features the viola for its color, expressivity, and voice within a narrative. That narrative is left to the listener. I use a transformational technique where music that appears in the beginning is gradually transformed into new ideas which are then transformed into even newer ideas. It is always evolving as a metaphor for love as a transforming force. It also borrows from a previous work titled Fieldsthat I've always felt there was more to say before and after it. The phrase by the Roman poet Virgil seems to have become appropriate for this work - "Amor Vincit Omnia" (Love Conquers All)

The music was commissioned by a consortium of 14 colleges led by Dr. Matthew Schlomer, Director of Bands at the Interlochen Arts Academy, Interlochen, Michigan.”

- Program Note by the composer, James Syler