Mangåta no.1 by Neda Samavati

The composition is a theme and variation inspired by an Iranian folk song, "tee be rah," translating to "eyes on the road." Comprising three variations, the folk song signifies anticipation while keeping watch for someone's arrival. Masoudd Bakhtiary (1940-2006) composed the song, featuring lyrics in Lori, a Farsi dialect. The theme is initially presented at the beginning of the composition and the original lyrics' meaning is elucidated at the end of the program note.
The term "Mangåta" is a Swedish expression denoting the moon's glimmering, road-like reflection on water. These three variations metaphorically represent the reflection of the main theme. Much like the moon's reflection gradually diverges from its original form, the variations in this piece progressively distance themselves from the initial theme upon initial inspection.
Premiered in the University of Western Ontario, April 2024
Flute (Piccolo): Paul Schulz-Courtemanche,
Soprano Saxophone: Dani McAfee
Bass Clarinet: Amy Dimitrov
Violin: Jacqueline Hang
Guitar: Neda Samavati

In the hush of twilight, I yearn for you,
Awaiting the moment our spirits entwine, true.
Without you, possibility fades away,
In the vast emptiness, my heart doth sway.
A patient vigil, I vow to endure,
Tethered to you, I cannot secure
A detachment from the essence we share,
Bound to your absence, a burden to bear.
Eagerly, I await the joyous reunion,
A flame within, fueled by love's communion.
It's you that ignites this fervent desire,
A blaze so fierce, it engulfs like wildfire.
Burning with passion, for you alone,
In the dance of flames, our destinies are sewn.
My spring turns to yellow when you're not near,
Life loses its luster, no longer sincere.
In solitude, sadness wraps its cold embrace,
A solo journey, time etches lines on my face.
Without you, the fire consumes my soul,
Aching for you, the missing piece to make me whole.