Piano Sonata (2020) — Michael Culver (United States)

I. Prologue to the Future
III. Aftermath

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I. Prologue to the Future – The sonata opens as a prologue to a dark future. Themes of “the machines” to come, and eventual destruction of the planet are hinted at as a warning. The movement is meant as a form of pastorale, evoking images of nature and a calm before a storm. 

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III. Aftermath -The remnants of the planet that humans have left behind is a melancholy landscape. Because of climate change, Earth is no longer habitable to humans, and because of this, nature is able to slowly begin rebuilding itself. This movement is meant to evoke the damage that we can do to the planet, but most importantly to ourselves, because once we are no longer able to live on this planet, Earth will heal and move on without us.

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Michael Culver (b. 1993) began studying composition at Asbury University at the age of 16. After his studies there, he studied privately with Thomas Pasatieri of The Juilliard School. In 2014, Michael accepted the position of composer-in-residence of DanSpiek Dance Theatre in New York City, a position he held until 2016.

His works include an opera, Julius (which is planned for a premier in London, England once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted), two symphonies, and many commissions for art songs and chamber music. Michael currently lives in Connecticut with his partner.