Rush Hour

Rush Hour

Rush Hour contrasts fast-paced melodic lines and twisting counterpoint with a pastoral middle section featuring oboe. Opening with an off-kilter unison line in seven, it pulses with intricate driving rhythms. Passing briefly through a pseudo-romantic string trio, it moves into a lush Copland-esque section that exudes calm, featuring a soaring oboe melody. Rush Hour returns to its hectic pace, recalling the opening motive but pushing it further until it screeches to a breathless halt. It’s good to have a little peace in the middle of a rush hour day.

Performed by a faculty ensemble from Denison University at the Tutti New Music Festival. (Steve Rosenberg, oboe; Robert Jones, clarinet; Karen Atria, bassoon; Andrew Carlson, violin; Debbie Price, viola; Doug Richeson, double bass.)