Title: Music for Cold Places
Michael Dover (Israfel)

This is an expressionistic piece for string orchestra,
flute, harp, 2 vibraphones and percussion
I'm a refugee from college composition courses so to
speak- what I mean is that I've spent the past two
years writing atonal music before I finally realized
that I wanted to do something else.  But still, I like
to include elements of contemporary composition in my
work...so you've been warned. ^_~

Winter to me is a quiet time.  There's a sort of
still, fragile feeling to the season.  However, it
also marks the end of another year- and that combined
with the quiet atmosphere invariably leads one to
reflect on his life.  And as one thinks back he may
feel anxiety and regret.

These contrasting ideas of quiet contemplation and
bittersweet memories are what this piece is about.  

I used open harmonies (mostly quintal) and polyrhythms
 (creating a almost windchime-type sound) in order to
capture a sort of wispy feeling that one might
associate with winter.  But those regrettful thoughts
take over- the rhythms become more complex, the
harmonies more dense.  But gradually those memories
fade away, and all you're left with is the stillness
of winter.

One last note- the midi is in no way meant to be read
as sheet music.  For example, there are 3 vibraphone
staves but I was writing this for 2 vibraphones.  This
is because of difficulties with my sequencer when
notating polyrhythms.  So what I'm saying is that the
layout of the midi was strictly for my convenience
while writing the piece and should not be considered
the "sheet music."

Thanks,
Michael