Scott St. John (violin), Sharon Wei (viola), Julia St. John (student violin)
I. The Rough, Open Sea II. The English Channel
III. The Nine Muses IV. The Lion’s Spring Dance
Program Notes
This work started in its trio, for professional violinist and violist Scott St. John, Sharon Wei, and their daughter Julia, who was 8 years old at the time I wrote this piece, and was just learning to play the violin. I loved working with Julia to create a piece that would showcase and feature her — both as a young performer, and as the loveliest musical collaborator.
The title of the movements, and of the work itself, are Julia’s. You’ll have to ask her if you want to know why she decided on those names. Or you can create your own story as you play.
Recording
(see video above)
Special Performance Requirements
This is a work that is designed for players of two different levels. One violin part is designed for a young performer (at about the level of Suzuki Book 3), and the additional violin and viola parts are designed for college level to professional players.
The piece was crafted with the intention that a young musician would get an opportunity to play with two advanced players. While it was created for a family, it can be played in string studios with younger and older students, or even between teachers and students. In every case, this is work is designed to be an exchange between musicians at different stages of their development.
Premiere/Performances
The Voyage was premiered on June 6, 2023 at the 48th International Viola Society Congress at Mahidol University’s College of Musicin Salaya, Thailand.
