Cassandra Fragments (2018)

For soprano and flute

10 minutes

Program Notes

Cassandra fragments was inspired by Euripides’ Trojan Women, the poet’s fiercest condemnation of the brutalities of war. After the fall of Troy, Cassandra, the Trojan princess, is betrothed to Agamemnon, the victor, to become his concubine. Through her prophetic gift, she foresees Agamemnon’s death upon their return to Argos, his homeland, as well as her own demise. In an ecstatic delirium, she sings praises to Hymen, god of marriage, knowing that her sacrifice will be the catalyst for the ultimate destruction of her tormentor and the house of Atreas.

Cassandra fragments was composed for soprano Nina Dante and flautist Dalia Chin of Fonema Consort, whose electrifying artistry has been a constant source of inspiration. The work was premiered February 21, 2019 in Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre, New England Conservatory.

Performed by Nina Dante, soprano, and Dalia Chin, flute, on February 21, 2019 (Premiere)

Purchase

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Performances

February 13, 2020 North Central College, Chicago, IL. Nina Dante & Dalia Chin.

March 27, 2019 Miami Beach Urban Studios, Florida International University. Nina Dante & Dalia Chin.

February 21, 2019 Shattuck Black Box Theater, New England Conservatory, Boston, MA. Nina Dante & Dalia Chin.