Even though I should be able to describe what it means that some of my poems have been set to music, I find it difficult. Fortunately, the NatPhil Chamber Series has provided the link to rent ($1.99) or buy ($3.99) the February 12, 2023 performance of “Chasing the Moon Down” by composer Carson Cooman. Thanks to Laura Colgate, Concertmaster, for curating this event, and to performers Melissa Wimbish, mezzo-soprano; Sophia Kim Cook, piano; and Chris Gekker, trumpet.
Song Cycles
“Chasing the Moon Down”
Carson Cooman set Gekker’s four poems of “Chasing the Moon Down” to music for medium low voice, trumpet and piano. Fabrik Musical Publications published the score. The CD, Rising at Dawn, includes this piece and was released in 2013. “Chasing the Moon Down” is also available on Apple Music. These poems are included in Gekker’s book, In Search of Warm Breathing Things as well.
“… to cast a shadow again”
Composer Eric Ewazen set Gekker’s eight poems of “… to cast a shadow again” to music for medium low voice, trumpet and piano. Well Tempered Productions released this music on the CD entitled Chamber Music of Eric Ewazen, and Keiser Productions, Inc., published of the score. From their website: “This piece was commissioned by the St. Luke’s Chamber Ensemble and premiered in New York in 1992 by William Sharp, baritone, Chris Gekker, trumpet, and Colette Valentine, piano. The poetry, written by Katherine Gekker, forms a cycle in which the excitement, power and mystery of love ultimately leads to the tragic and empty loss of love. The trumpet serves as a type of Greek chorus, commenting upon and highlighting the deelpy felt and emotional words." The album is available for download on Summit Records and Apple Music. These poems also appear in Gekker’s book, In Search of Warm Breathing Things.