Opus 93
Gematria (1991)
for Orchestra
3(=Picc).3(=Eh).3(=Bcl).3(=Cbn)/4.3.3.1/timp.4perc/hp/strings
Duration: 13 min.
Dedication: to the members of the JCC Orchestra of San Diego
Recording: Toccata TOCC0368
Premiere: 1992; JCC Orchestra of San Diego; D. Amos
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Although found elsewhere, Gematria is most fully developed as an esoteric aspect of Judaism, particularly of Kabbalah mysticism. Numbers are systematically substituted for letters, resulting in complex hidden ideas, cross-references and double-meanings in otherwise apparently straightforward texts. This work does not apply a similarly schematic approach to music, but attempts a fitting mood and richness by means of complicated cross-rhythmic overlays of colors and harmonies. This work was commissioned by David Amos and the JCC Orchestra of San Diego. (Notes by Arnold Rosner)