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Steps was inspired by the adventure of mountain climbing. One starts at the base, looking up in wonderment. Then comes the climb, the ascent. The summit is reached, and the glory of the journey brings a special closeness to the natural world -- a time to listen to the earth.
These duets employ a variety of Cello techniques, enjoying possibilities which include rolled pizz, tapping on strings, and tremoli up and down the body of the Cello. In the "Summit" movement, one Cello plays arching patterns of harmonics, "suggestive of mountain peaks." The wide range of the Cello allows for dramatic steps!
Notes by the composer