Book Synopsis
birth cycle: a study in seasons
for solo piano
brice mayfield, composer
movements:
I. granatum | energy
II. amethustos | temperance
III. heliotrope | sacrifice (spring)
IV. adamas | light
V. smaragdus | love
VI. perla | sincerity (summer)
VII. rubeus | vitality
VIII. sardonux | strength
IX. sappheiros | wisdom (autumn)
X. opalus | magic
XI. topazos | potency
XII. turqouis | protection (winter)
this cycle of twelve musical movements is based on the traditional chart of the birthstones of the western calendar year. each title is derived from the ancient version of the name we have for these stones today, while each musical movement itself represents the magical property associated with each specific stone, creating an eclectic musical collection. Other symbols, such as the seasons, are represented musically, as well. this opus is dedicated to my dear friend jewel connor––an unstoppable force in both my heart and the arts––as a way to pay back for all she has inspired within me.