Compline by Christopher Rouse

Composer Christopher Rouse composed Compline for the eclectic group of string quartet, harp, flute and clarinet as an ode to his first visit to the Eternal City of Rome, Italy.

Rouse positions the listener in the city with a device noting the omnipresence of church bells in Rome. The bell sounds take the form of a busy and unrelenting ostinato, fragmented and shared by the seven players in turn. Every corner of the seven-sided ensemble erupts and overlaps in joyous tintinnabulation. Contrasting this mood is the sense of antiquity, and a more sober musical idiom.

Come delve into this miraculous travelogue at Pepper Bridge winery, and close out the 2019 Tasting Music Series in ultimate style.

Artists: Sarah Brady, flute; Timothy Christie, viola; Katri Ervamaa, cello; Amy Ley, harp; Stephen Miahky, violin; Maria Sampen, violin; and Kevin Schempf, clarinet.