William L. Gillock ： Lyric Preludes Legend

“Legend,” from Gillock’s Lyric Preludes, is an atmospheric miniature that evokes a sense of storytelling. A long-breathed melody lies at its center, while the movement of the accompaniment and changes in sonority support the shifting character of the music. The melody should be shaped vocally, with the inner voices and accompaniment kept understated. Carefully judge the peaks of each phrase and apply natural dynamic shading. Change the pedal in accordance with the harmonic shifts to avoid blurred sonorities; allowing the resonance to linger brings out the dreamlike atmosphere and the expressive, almost conversational quality of the piece.