THE ÆOLIAN SONATA for organ by Dan Locklair

THE ÆOLIAN SONATA for organ was commissioned by Duke University Chapel (David Arcus, Chapel Organist) for a recital on 2 June 2002 celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Chapel's Æolian pipe organ (1932-2002). The piece was composed between late January and March 2002. The word "Aeolus", meaning the Greek god of the winds, is at the heart of the name of the American organ builder, the Æolian Organ Company, which built this original Duke Chapel organ (their last before merging with the E.M. Skinner Organ Co.). Aeolian is also the name of one of the ancient Greek modes which, later in history, became one of the original church modes (i.e. A - A on the white notes of the keyboard). The Aeolian mode, as well as the pitches "A" and "E", are important compositional building blocks for The Æolian Sonata.
In three movements, THE ÆOLIAN SONATA musically celebrates the heritage and continued use of the historic Æolian organ in Duke Chapel. Extra-musically, it pays tribute to the spirit of the American people in the aftermath of the 2001 September 11 terrorist attacks. The title for each movement is in a different language, symbolically paying tribute to the outpouring of support that Americans have felt from peace-loving people throughout the world. In a spiritual way, the music of each movement is a reflection on its title, with these words being indicative of a healing nation.
I. Aus tiefer not (Out of the Depths I Cry to Thee)
II. Shalom (Peace)
III. Laudate Dominum (O Praise the Lord)
The performance here is by the American organist, Dr. Marilyn Keiser, from her Loft/Gothic recording, THE MUSIC OF DAN LOCKLAIR (LRCD-1110).
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THE ÆOLIAN SONATA for organ is published by Subito Music.
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