I started working on a new piece today. I feel compelled. I HAVE to write it.
It is called “Chakras” for woodwind quintet and percussion.
Chakras is a musical depiction of the awakening of spiritual awareness. In many esoteric traditions, ordinary human consciousness is depicted as a coiled serpent sleeping at the base of the spine. The sleeping serpent represents potential. It is man’s fallen consciousness.
As the serpent (or “kundalini” in Eastern traditions) awakens, it begins its path upward through the seven energy centers called “Chakras”.
Each Chakra is associated with certain areas of awareness or consciousness. As each Chakra is energized and brought into balance, one becomes more awakened and conscious.
Ultimately, as the kundalini reaches the seventh Chakra of infinite awareness, one becomes fully enlightened and experiences oneness with God.
I do not claim to be an enlightened being. I can only use my imagination to create a stylized musical depiction of the awakening of kundalini and the process of each Chakra being energized and brought into balance.
It’s been a long time since I’ve written a chamber work. It feels good to be writing for a small ensemble. It forces me to think more about the music itself rather than what to do with all the instruments. (Plus, it goes faster. I’ve only got a few parts to worry about!)
I believe chamber music is the testing ground of composers. I regret not having written more chamber music. But it’s never too late for anything.
Expect more to come.
