Program Notes:

Toward Stillness for French Horn and piano contrasts sharply with the harsh realities the composer faced in 2023 and 2024 - war, political upheaval, a restless society, and a lack of respect for others and for nature. As in previous years, he immersed himself in the practice of Yoga and meditation, constantly seeking a deep connection with both body and soul. There - when all thoughts cease spinning and the minutiae of life are set aside - true peace resides. To reach this state of nirvana, one must slow down and aim for stillness. Accordingly, the music is slow, questioning, standing, and then moving. The horn remains expressively distant, like a voice coming from afar.