Inuit cultures tell many legends about the aurora borealis, aksarnirq. In some tribes, the spirits are believed to be carrying torches to guide us to the sky, in others, these incredible lights are manifestations of spirits playing, dancing, moving in joy and play. This piece pulls together words from some of these legends alongside vocal solos reminiscent of a Scandinavian shepherding tradition to celebrate ice, winter, and the spectacular natural play of light.
(Duration 6 minutes, featuring solos for 1 each soprano, alto, tenor and bass).
Commissioned by the William Baker Choral Foundation for Vox Venti (Ed Frazier Davis, Artistic Director).
