Pastelle for flute quintet

Pastelle is a memorial piece written for my first cat, Cella, who was put to rest in 2023. The name derives from the fact that she was a dilute tortie, having a gray and beige coat, rather than black and orange. It is a five movement piece for low flute choir. Movement I signifies the simultaneous dread of having to put my baby girl to rest, with the knowledge that she would soon be relieved of her suffering. Movement II captures the grief immediately following her passing. Movement III is meant to be from her perspective (purrspective), symbolizing that she has moved on to her post life form. Movements IV and V represent the bond and communication that I still have with her. I am sad at having to let her go, yet hopeful that she is better off now, and that we will reunite someday.

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