Velvet Shoes

Andy Beck brings his gift for vivid text painting, evocative piano motives, and tuneful melodies to a favorite wintertime poem. Though not a word-for-word setting, the themes of the Elinor Wylie's words are evident from the snow-covered introduction, winding melody, and expressive andante, to the silken harmonic palette and lacy choral layers. Choose this piece with the confidence that it has been carefully constructed to encourage musicality and artistry from any ensemble. Program the eloquent concert and contest work from fall to spring, anytime there might be snow on the ground. "We shall walk in velvet shoes . . . under a veil of lace."