Program Notes from Laura Griffiths USC Horn Recital
The Griffin's Claw The legendary Griffin lives on in mythology and lore, a formidable beast combining the strength of the lion with the intelligence of the eagle. These massive creatures were said to have the body and hindquarters of the lion, an eagle's head, wings and claws, to have feathers along their backs and lion's ears. Thus, they were masters of both Earth and Sky. Originating from the mythology of Ancient Persia, Central Asia and India, Griffins were said to be keepers of treasure, lining their nests with gold. However, more valuable than gold, were the creatures' claws. A persistent legend tells that poisoned wine served in a Griffin's claw would change color and alert the victim of treachery. The Griffin's Claw reflects this dramatic color change in music. This piece also represents the Griffin's duality: earth and sky, strength and intelligence. The melodic writing for the French Horn represents the Griffin's intelligence. The sheer power of the percussion instruments depicts its strength. The duality of the Griffin is suggested as well in the very form of the piece. A central theme and rhythmic identity are established in the introductory "A" section. This section is most easily identified by the recurring main motive in the horn, and the relentless rhythmic figures from the percussionists. This texture dramatically gives way to the "B" section (a sudden color change, suggesting our wine may be poisoned after all!). Here, the vibraphone and marimba provide immediate release from the timbre of the driving toms and bass drum. After a brief return to the "A" section, the final section of The Griffin's Claw combines material from both "A" and "B" simultaneously: a fusion of strength and intelligence. Here, the tempo has been dramatically accelerated, and this new rhythmic framework alters the perception of the marimba and vibraphone motives for both audience and performers. Actually, these instruments are recreating the exact same material they originally played in the "B" section: only the musical context around them has changed. In the finale, the duality between established motives and new rhythmic energy echoes the dual nature of the Griffin. The jarring contrasts in color in this piece reflect the unmistakable color change of poisoned wine served in a Griffin's claw and the ultimate confrontation of victim and traitor, each requiring strength and intelligence in their duel. |
