Norton-Forsythian Spring-M

Forsythian Spring by Christopher Norton, was inspired by the vibrant color of the yellow-leafed shrubs visible outside the composer's studio during the creation of this piece in March 1997. It reflects the buoyant character of Norton's elder daughter, Emily, to whom the piece is dedicated. The piece presents and develops two themes in its opening section, is followed by a substantial chorale based on these themes, and then concludes with a significantly shortened reprise. Forsythian Spring can be heard on Norton's compact disc recording entitles "CHRISTOPHER NORTON: Creston Concertino for Marimba."

Instrument: Marimba (4-mallet, 4.5 or 4.6 octave)
Difficulty: Grade 5-6
Number of Players: 1