AustLit

Composer's note: The musical setting of the poem falls broadly into four (continuous) sections. The opening section comprises a rhythmic and lively music as the choir sings of standing over 'tides of ocean.'

There follows a calmer music as the poem carries us into the night with images of moon-paths and flying fish flashes, culminating in a 'southward dip' which involves all the tenors and basses descending to their striking lowest registers.

The slowly emerging Southern Cross and the excitement of its presence is reflected in the third section of the work by the gradual accretion of voices forming a natural crescendo. Like a frame for the work, the choir returns to the opening music before concluding.

Source: Matthew Orlovich's website, http://www.mattheworlovich.com/
Sighted: 08/01/2009