This expressive work by the American composer Adolphus Hailstork gently ebbs and flows, alternating between melodic fragments and cascades of notes. The range of both notes and rhythm are approachable so there is plenty of scope for individuality in performance, especially as the simple structure allows the piece to hang together effectively. It is based on a Korean folktale but you don't have to know that to appreciate it's evocative style - it's just lovely!
In Korean mythology, Yuhwa was the daughter of a River God, tricked into marrying the Sun God. She escaped back to her homeland and gave birth to a son who became the founder and monarch of Korea’s northern kingdom. The symbolic willow tree is considered a source of healing in Korean folklore and elsewhere around the world. Hailstork’s 6-minute depiction is a luscious mix of innocent (and catchy) melody, blended with fascinating drama and texture to create a concert work that both stands on its own as pure music and depicts the legend of the goddess Yuhwa.
Winner: NFA Newly Published Music Awards 2021
Performance duration (approx): 6'00
