Meditation for String Orchestra (1984) by Colin Eatock

Meditation for String Orchestra (1984) is my earliest acknowledged work. It marks my first successful use of the musical language which served me well in ensuing decades: the piece is tonally centred, with extensive use of Romantic-era “colour chords” (while simple triads are conspicuously avoided), and with highly chromatic melodic elements. Throughout, the tempo is in a constant state of flux, with a sense of repose achieved only at the end of the piece.

Performers: Composers' Orchestra, Toronto; Gary Kulesha conducting.