Program Note

Commissioned by Miller Theatre at Columbia University, ENCHANTED INVOCATION is dedicated with admiration and gratitude to John Corkhill, Melissa K. Smey, and Miller Theatre. The world premiere took place in May 2021 as part of Miller Theatre’s MISSION COMMISSION podcast series performed by John Corkhill, whose masterly skill, virtuosity, and finesse are world-class.

Selected Reviews

M.L. Rantala, Classical Music Critic, Hyde Park Herald, April 19, 2022 HEADLINE: The bells toll for thee: New music by Augusta Read Thomas
“There are two works on the CD for solo percussionists, both performed by John Corkhill, a member of the Grossman Ensemble. For “Enchanted Invocation” Corkhill creates a mysterious mood, this time on the vibraphone. The music is very slow and yet has a pull to it. There are long notes that seem to hum for an unusually long time, adding to the enchanting effect.”

Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, May 27, 2021 “Enchanted Invocation is more enigmatic, even unsettled. Enchanted Invocation remains sparse, its searching notes on vibraphone sustained so that mallet strikes overlap in vibrantly colored eddies. Every once in a while, ascending passages stretch heavenward before halting with...crotale hits. Like Icarus, it is as though this music cannot go too high before bowing to its own limitations.”

MAP OF FORM as drawn by the composer

To obtain examination or performance material for this
Augusta Read Thomas work, please contact Nimbus Music Publishing.