the breath of life
Dan Forrest's fourth major work continues in the vein of his previous major works, exploring profound themes of what it is to be human. the breath of life ponders the beauty - yet brevity - of human life as portrayed in a single breath. Its profoundly moving texts (ranging from ancient to modern) explore life, loss, and the love that makes life worthwhile. Written just before the events of 2020, this work speaks with a prophetic voice, and would be a deeply fitting tribute for any concert setting, but particularly themes of memorial/remembrance.
Scored for SATB chorus, strings, solo cello, piano, electronics, and organ. Rental of instrumental score/parts, required for performance, is available from the publisher. MIDI Patch for the electronics available free from composers website. Optional purchases of full score and organ part available below for conductors/organists who wish to keep their own copy.