Four Panels of Christ - for Orchestra and Piano
I. Garden of Gethsemane
Jesus prays in the garden the night of his betrayal. Deserted by his Disciples, given up with a kiss, and arrested .
II. Road to Golgotha
Jesus is put on trial, denied by Peter three times, found guilty by the mob. He is beaten and made to
carry his cross (solo piano) to Golgotha – the place of the skull.
(without pause to the III. Movement)
III. Crucifixion
Jesus makes seven statements on the cross:
To God: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
To the “good thief”: Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
To Mary, his mother: “Woman, behold your son” … and to John: “Behold your mother.”
To God, his Father: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
To All: “I thirst.”
To the world: “It is finished.”
To God: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
IV. Pascha
Angel: “Why do you look for the living among the dead?”
Composer’s note
I have been yearning to write this piece for many years. The story with its theme of ultimate love, the colors and textures have always been in my mind.