Aaron Alter

Homage to Josquin was inspired by the music of the Renaissance master, Josquin des Prés (c.1451-1521.) He was an almost exact contemporary of Leonardo da Vinci. In his time, the “New World” was discovered, the modern printing press with movable type was invented (the “Internet” of its time), and Europe was emerging from the Middle Ages. The Josquin-inspired themes are combined in a novel way with a symphonic piano part and a “Classic Rock” rhythm section, transcending any specific category of music. Both flute parts are treated equally, as in a Baroque trio sonata and highlight the flute's melodic and vocal qualities as well as its dramatic qualities. The flutes take on the role of the voices in the Josquin-inspired themes, and in the sections where they are playing by themselves, it would be easy to imagine being transported to back to early 16th century Italy, where Josquin’s music was performed in the chapels of the rich and powerful.

The form of Homage to Josquin is very classical in design, similar to first movements of Sonatas, String Quartets or Symphonies of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. You’ll hear musical ideas being presented, developed and recalled later. 

In addition to the version for Two Flutes, Piano, Electric Bass and Drum Set, there is another version of Homage to Josquin with Two Clarinets in place of the Two Flutes.

Homage to Josquin was awarded an Honorable Mention from the American Prize in their 2016 Instrumental Chamber Music Composition Competition.

Below is the video of the World Premiere performance of Homage to Josquin by Linda Marianiello and Susan Levitin, flutes, Jacquelyn Helin, piano and Aaron Alter, computer (performing the Electric Bass and Drum parts.) The performance was on June 28, 2015 in Santa Fe, New Mexico as part of the Santa Fe Flute Immersion.

Below is the radio interview on KSFR 101.1 FM in Santa Fe about Homage to Josquin with Linda Marianiello and Franz Vote of the New Mexico Performing Arts Society, followed by audio of the premiere performance that was broadcast on September 20, 2015.