A Certain Slant of Light (2018/2022) by Emma Logan
for violin and viola
World premiere; Earplay commission

This version of A Certain Slant of Light for violin and viola creates piercing textures with the unique sound of two string instruments playing figures closely together. The piece travels from dark, tumultuous gestures to lush, serene harmonies. Finding inspiration for the title from Emily Dickinson's poem There's a certain Slant of light, the thematic journey of the poem perfectly echoes the journey of the piece.

There's a certain Slant of light
    by Emily Dickinson

There's a certain Slant of light,
Winter Afternoons -
That oppresses, like the Heft
of Cathedral Tunes -

Heavenly Hurt, it gives us -
We can find no scar,
But internal difference -
Where the Meanings, are -

None may teach it - Any -
'Tis the Seal Despair -
An imperial affliction
Sent us of the Air -

When it comes, the Landscape listens -
Shadows - hold their breath -
When it goes, 'tis like the Distance
On the look of Death -

— E. L.    

[from program for March 21, 2022 concert]