Kelly Picton, cello

Ian McFarland, marimba

premiered December 2nd, 2022

INTO THE DARKNESS was composed of the idea of adventuring into mysterious and unknown locations. It reflects this with the primary use of the two instruments’ low registers. The marimba cello duet is a suitable combination with similar tone colors and timbres. Low register marimba tremolos, combined with hairpin dynamics, help shape the ominous quality. The cello adds emotional texture to the sound, creating a piece fitting its name.

From Thomas’s Program Note