Herrera, CC :: Celestial Suite

ALRY Publications presents 'Celestial Suite' for solo flute (doubling alto flute and piccolo) and chamber orchestra by composer Cathy Collinge Herrera. 

The composer writes about this piece, 'It seems I am often drawn to looking heavenward, whether to appreciate soaring birds, cloud formations and sunbeams radiating through them, or the unearthly mysteries that wink at us in the dark. The name for the opening movement of Celestial Suite, 'Poem of a Pastel Moon,' was inspired by one of those moments enjoying the night sky. The flute line serves to represent the bright, clear moon, while the strings are the luminous yet somewhat blurred halo of haze surrounding the moon. Movement two titled 'Circling Saturn' coaxes the listener toward a brief moment for mediation and relaxation, featuring the gentle pulse of the low strings under the flute. The title 'Mercury's Fire' alludes to the intensity of the planet's extremely high surface temperature that occurs when facing the sun. To create excitement and ignite sparks of varying color, this final movement of the suite introduces two more members of the flute family in addition to the authoritative, explosive timpani. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to share Celestial Suite with you.'