Jonathan Cohen

Helen's Backyard

Helen's Backyard is a celebration of life told through a backyard day, presented in five movements. 'Dawn Processional' paints a sunrise and the sun's triumphal march across the land. Tentative but enthusiastic birds then attempt to sing as an ensemble in 'Boid Dance, ' but can never quite get it together. 'Cat Pause' is the swing-beat swagger of a very cool cat, complete with meows and purrs. The frenetic 'Squirrels' follows. Finally, 'Evening Chorale' brings the day to a satisfying close. Parts are for 4 C flutes, alto, and bass, and is about 8 minutes in length.