The Pepper Tree (2010) for guitar trio
The Pepper Tree is a set of miniatures for classical guitar trio, each inspired by a specific image from the song, El Pimiento, by Víctor Jara. The song, written in 1965 as an allegorical tribute to the Atacameño people, tells of an undaunted pepper tree’s growth from the parched desert earth of the Pampa del Tamarugal (a region in northern Chile). Víctor Jara’s story and musical legacy is a source of inspiration in this piece, in my life and in the lives of many. I composed this piece in 2010 at a time I was just beginning to explore the tonal, coloristic possibilities of sixth tone microtonality.
1. “The Pepper Tree”
2. “Sun and wind sustain him”
3. “Working underground, looking for nourishment”
4. “Blossom of red fire”
5. “Moon and wind watch over him”
6. “Growth”