Ghost Tale

The classic ghost stories most of us know today have their roots in the Victorian Age, but they have existed since the dawn of recorded history, from ancient Rome, from Greece, and from Egypt.

Ghost Tale opens with a mischievous melody sounding in the low winds, followed by a more suspenseful episode; but it is the third section -- a set of five variations on a repeated phrase of eight dark chords -- that most vividly expresses the unease of a ghostly presence. Beginning quietly, this section slowly builds in intensity, finally exploding into a huge climax. Just as it seems the mood cannot get any more foreboding, the playful little melody that began the piece returns, reminding the listener not to take this, or any ghost tale too seriously.

Program Note by composer