On the Life of Roses by Robert Strobel

This work was performed by Chad Spears and Sofia Scattarreggia, as well as recorded by Adam Klein. The song cycle, On the Life of Roses, tells a story of the growth, mortal existence, and death of roses. The first movement “While Roses Grow,” is active, quirky and cheerful, showing the things that happen as roses grow. In “Blossom Is,” the singer contemplates in the peace and beauty of a rose and the world around it. Finally, in “Dead Roses,” the third movement, the passing of the rose is mourned, leading to an intense climax. Roses definitely hold cultural meaning, and I believe many symbolic “roses” can live and die in a lifetime. The text came from Ina Coolbrith’s (1841-1928) Songs from the Golden Gate, which is in the public domain (1895).

Contains tracks

• 1. While Roses Grow by Robert Strobel
• 2. Blossom Is by Robert Strobel
• 3. Dead Roses by Robert Strobel