Tom Gerou

Yosemite Splendor

The three movements of Yosemite Splendor capture the beauty of three wonders found in Yosemite National Park, located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. The first movement, 'In the Mist of Yosemite Falls,' uses arpeggiated figures to convey the motion of water as it descends and the mist as it rises. The spirit of the piece flows, in alla breve time, with a majestic quality, while interplay between melody and accompaniment continues throughout the piece. Changing key signatures provide interest for the student by developing similar patterns in a number of keys (G major, E-flat major, C minor, and B-flat major). 'Half Dome Drama' is a tango representing a hike to the rock formation known as Half Dome. The precarious trek to the top of this famous landmark is captured musically with chromatic colorations and dramatic syncopated rhythms. In a gentle 3/4 meter, 'The Mystical Mariposa Grove' reflects the ancient giant sequoia trees in Mariposa Grove. Pleasantly meditative patterns provide opportunities for students to focus on phrasing and color. Changing key signatures present additional musical challenges, while pianistic patterns lay comfortably in the hands.