Elegy: Beneath the Peddler’s Moon (2020)

Performance: Jennifer Case, oboe

Duration: 7 minutes

Instrumentation: solo oboe

Awards: 3rd Place The American Prize Composition-work relate to COVID (2022)

Program Note: In May 2020 a hoax circled the internet that Venus, Jupiter, and the Moon would align to form a smiley face in the night sky, a rare astronomical event known as an occultation. As people remained quarantined in their homes due to the coronavirus and isolated from one another, I began to think about how much I wished this event was true. We all could have used a friendly smile in the night sky; something to unify us and provide some hope and comfort during this difficult time.

The moon has long been a source of inspiration for musical works: Pierrot Lunaire, Claire de Lune, and “Song to the Moon” from Rusalka to name a few. We all share the same moon, often reflecting on the world’s issues while being reminded of how small we are while gazing upon it. Even when we are isolated and missing our friends and loved ones there are still unifying features like the moon that bring us together. Though socially distant, we all stare at the same moon, maybe even at the same time while asking some of the same questions.

The subtitle of the piece “Beneath the Peddler’s Moon” refers to the book Wizard and Glass from Stephen King’s series The Dark Tower. Wizard and Glass provides a glimpse into the world of the Gunslinger Roland before the world has moved on. While reading this book I couldn’t help but think about our current pandemic. Early in the story we gain a glimpse into another world plagued by a pandemic. The artwork entitled “God Save Us” by Dave McKean provides a stunning visual of this moment in the first edition. While carrying out their duties Roland and his companions uncover a plot that ultimately leads to the demise of society and creates the post-apocalyptic world where much of The Dark Tower series takes place.

We often long for the time before the coronavirus, a time where the world hasn’t moved on. We want to believe this is all a hoax and that it’s safe to do “normal” things. Sadly, we face a new reality and there aren’t smiley faces in the night sky. Still, we are united by many things like the moon that provides some comfort as we strive to accept our new reality. What is our place in this new world in which we find ourselves? Elegy for solo oboe asks these questions and strives to express the emotions and thoughts we find ourselves exploring during this difficult time of isolation, maybe even at night while staring at the moon. Words often fall short and I hope this piece provides a sense of relief, calm, and unity during a difficult time.

The oboe consortium: This piece would not have been possible without the generous commitment and enthusiasm from oboists around the world. A heartfelt thank you to all of the oboists in this commissioning consortium.

Organizers: Jennifer Case and Galit Kaunitz