Cohen, Jonathan: Wooden Bridge

In broad strokes, this piece describes the experience of emigration as remembered and reconciled a family. After an introduction, we hear the tenseness of a difficult life that grows more agitated and leads to leaving that life behind. We then hear the “march of time.” Following that is a period of reflection, as the old trials and adjusting to a new life are recalled, but considered and reconsidered, growing less painful and more light with each examination. A period of calm reflection follows, which goes from melancholy remembering to acceptance. Finally, a theme of pride is heard that develops into a triumphal celebration of the courage to leave an old life and to prosper in a new one. Scored for piccolo, 3 flutes, 2 alto flutes, bass flute, and optional contrabass, or for piccolo, 4 flutes, 1 alto, bass flute, and optional contrabass.