Of Dwarven Mines is a suite in five movements, depicting various scenes you would find a fantastical dwarf in. It was commissioned by Matthew Willingham, whose shared interest in the fantasy genre provided sufficient impetus for the theme of the piece. It uses a fair share of tone-painting and dramatic sweeping effects to color the image of each of the scenes, lending itself to vivid imaginations. As with many of my other works, the employment of the full register of each instrument, both high and low (and in particular Willingham’s excellent high register), provides a wealth of colors to explore with.

The first movement, Descent, opens with a wide chasm in the piano’s registers, starting with a low pedal and shimmering chords on top. The trombone fills in the middle register, moving into an earthy and rich melody. As we approach the end, the trombone’s melodic line descends into the lower register as the piano reflects the light off many gemstones in a quartal pattern.

Mining Song, from the depths, moves into a heavy and powerful tune which can be heard echoed back in the cavernous mines. The large downbeats illustrate the weight and strength of the mining itself. 

Following such hard work, Lunchtime provides a sprightly tune which evokes the chopping of ingredients, shuffling of pans, and stirring of contents to which a hearty meal is made. The movement ends in rising steam, with a delicate upwards arpeggio that vanishes into the air.

The fourth movement, Sacred Grave, is a wistful scene in which a solitary grave is illuminated by a distant skylight. The song evokes warm memories, with yet a tender string that trails them off into the faded past. 

Yet what better way to end a day of work than with the Tavern Dance, a mazurka that calls back on the theme from the Descent in its middle section.