Radiant Pillars

For Solo Piano

2024 National Finalist for The American Prize in Instrumental Chamber Music Composition

2024 National Finalist for The American Prize Ernst Bacon Memorial Award

Radiant Pillars premiered on October 28, 2022 in Werner Recital Hall at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and was recorded live in concert.

Michael Delfín - Piano

PROGRAM NOTES

Radiant Pillars is an abstract reflection on two scientific observations which expanded our understanding of the universe: the Hubble telescope image, “Pillars of Creation,” showing stars forming from massive clouds of gas and dust, and the discovery of the Cosmic Microwave Background, the edge of the universe still expanding from the Big Bang.

Radiant Pillars begins by contrasting light, gently reverberating motives and delicate fragments with darker, colossal columns, illuminated by cascades of vivid, intense color. Bright, vibrant flourishes follow, building a torrent of energy as Radiant Pillars culminates in an immense explosion. Finally, clear, gentle fragments return, echoing in the highest reaches of the piano as they fade away.

11 minutes | Solo Piano | 2020
Composed for pianist Michael Delfín

Radiant Pillars is also available for orchestra.

Digital Premiere Recording

This recording was created for digital broadcast and recorded without audience due to restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was recorded on April 9, 2021 in Werner Recital Hall at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.

Michael Delfín - Piano