is abstract in that there is no extra-musical imagery or narrative structure associated with the music. It is a lush adagio built upon a repeated cycle of chords ascending in stepwise motion. The music gradually gainsupward momentum over this cyclical progression, reaching a powerful dramatic climax. The energy and momentum dissipate, returning the music to its opening contemplative quietness.

Though Rise is not programmatic, theconnotation of the title, and the corresp...