Parietal Eye (2023) by Wyatt Cannon
for clarinet, viola, and electronics
World premiere

This piece, more than anything, is a contemplation on my memories. The basis for the composition is a melodic pattern that repeats in a special way so that the voices change character as they move throughout their ranges. Harmonies that often create pleasant associations and those that are more sinister collide to create a bittersweet sound, a feeling that I often experience as I remember parts of my life.

As we think about our past we gain wisdom, and the memories that once caused us much pain become like old scars. Sometimes we even admire them with fondness. This kind of enlightenment reminds me of the concept of a third eye, a spiritual gateway that lets us peer into ourselves. I was surprised to learn that our ancient ancestors did in fact possess a third eye, known as the "parietal eye", that many lizards have kept even today. As you listen, I hope you think about experiences in your own life and how they have shaped your understanding of existence.