Description

Rising reflects on the event of Jesus’ Ascension from earth to the right hand of God. (Luke 24.50–53) The work opens with a rising violin motive, an upward-turning arabesque that creates the aural illusion of a spiraling ascent. As the work reaches for its conclusion, the violin makes its final ascent into the ether, while the piano continues a reverie suggestive of the faithful who long for Jesus’ return, firmly planted on the earth but yearning for the heavens.

Rising was commissioned for the 50th Anniversary of Lutheran Church of the Ascension, Northfield, IL. It is dedicated to the late violinist Oliver Colbentson, esteemed colleague and friend of the congregation.