Black Notes

with Piano: Written for Joe Lulloff and inspired by jazz saxophonist Rahsaan Roland Kirk’s composition Blacknuss. In the introduction to Blacknuss Kirk states "there are 52 white notes and 36 black notes on the piano. We're going to play the black notes only, if you don't mind." The opposition suggested between black and white notes is expanded to include static and dynamic elements, consonant and dissonant harmonies, and pattered and non-patterned events. The title also refers to the middle section's exclusive use of the black notes of the piano. Vigorous swing rhythms contrast with sections of haunting beauty.