Ron Nelson: Ask The Moon

  
Three Settings of the Moon brings to sixteen the number of poems by Thomas E. Ahlburn which I have set to music. Their optional intrumental accompaniments follow a similar format to the first thirteen, Four Pieces After the Seasons; Three Autumnal Sketches; Three Nocturnal Pieces and Three Seasonal Reflections, which were written for relatively inexpensive (or easily borrowed) instruments, most of which may be played by members of the chorus.

The Melodica part may be played on any woodwind instrument with the appropriate range. The part should be thought of as being in dialogue with the chorus. It should not intrude while the chorus is singing but should "play out" when its part is in the open.