- Carol Suite (1978, 2001) flute and organ 10'
- Premiere-1978, by John Thomas and Marian Craighead, Rochester, NY.
Program Note
Carol Suite draws on carols from different parts of the church year. The suite opens with a brief, rhythmic prelude on an original theme, the lilting rhythm of which will reappear in each movement. Three tunes follow. The familiar German tune, "O Jesulein süss" is presented in a straightforward setting with a rocking quartal accompaniment, then developed and restated with richer harmony. "The Lamb of God" speaks of the mature Christ. In a setting which moves from grief through radiant outcry to resignation, the carol tune appears only in fragments. The joy of resurrection pervades the Irish "Wexford Carol." Strong irregular rhythms give way to a lyrical second theme that outlines the carol tune. The music of the Prelude returns and carries the work to a jubilant close.