The music was substantial, vigorous, often charming. The first movement, dark and mysterious; the second, a spirited dash. The percussion writing intensified, deepened and boldly colored the work.

— Daniel Webster, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Andrew Rudin

Celebrations

for two pianos & percussion

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The two roughly equal-length movements relate to each other by contrast– the first, rather somber; the second more jubilant. Both movements are through-composed, without apparent repetition or recapitulation. However, symmetries and parallels exist between the two. Canons begin movement one, and conclude movement two. Both begin with introductions, followed by a main section which builds to a climax, which is followed by a quiet interlude and a pause. Each then concludes with a section more spirited and rhythmically driven. Each has a short coda.