The sonic image I had when composing this eight-minute composition was that of a kaleidoscope's vibrant and multi-shaped materials being rotated five times, resulting in five ever-changing bebop dances which are played without pause. The orchestra is a virtuosic kaleidoscope. Bebop Kaleidoscope, Homage to Duke Ellington unfolds a labyrinth of musical interrelationships and connections that showcase the world-class musicians of the New York Philharmonic and conductor Ken-David Masur. Here is a virtuosic display of rhythmic and timbral dexterity, counterpoint, skill, energy, dynamic and articulative range, precision, and teamwork. When feasible, the composition is to be performed with dancers. Made as an homage to Duke Ellington, Bebop Kaleidoscope celebrates the imagination, joy, love, swing, soul, energy, great chords (as if he had seven fingers on each hand!), rich chord progressions, tight big-band-splash-chords, the use of brass mutes, the highlighting of soloists within the band, and the sheer beating-heart inner life of the music. - Augusta Read Thomas
