Alyssa Morris: "Chrysalis" for English Horn and Piano
for English horn and piano
by Alyssa Morris (b. 1984)- American composer
I. Caterpillar
II. Within the Chrysalis
III. Butterfly
Chrysalis is the musical analogy of a caterpillar; its metamorphosis, and becoming a butterfly. Within the story is another message: to become spiritually changed. The first movement, Caterpillar, introduces the "caterpillar theme" that will transform throughout the piece. This melody begins with clarity and is transformed into an awkward, crawling caterpillar. The theme returns with serenity once again at the end of the movement.
In movement two, the caterpillar enters a new and unknown phase of progression. The caterpillar struggles to find its way. But in the darkness of the chrysalis, the caterpillar finds hope and the strength to become something more. Within the Chrysalis attempts to capture my personal feelings regarding the sacrifice and death of Jesus Christ. In this movement are moments of quiet grief, deep sadness, and anguish, and then gratitude and hope. The caterpillar changes within the chrysalis, just as one can experience a spiritual rebirth through Christ's great gift.
In the third movement, the Butterfly emerges. The "caterpillar theme" is transformed. The butterfly sings praises to God, who gave it wings to fly. All Creatures of Our God and King is quoted: "All Creatures of Our God and King Lift up your voice and with us sing...Oh, Praise Him!...Alleluia!"
-Allysa Morris
Premiered on June 9th, 2015 at the River Center, Legacy Hall, Schwob School of Music, Columbus State University by Carolyn Hove, English horn, and Tatiana Muzanova, piano.