Composer's Note: The Locust Tree is a work about wood. In particular, it celebrates the sturdy black locust tree, a tree considered to be native throughout the Appalachians but cultivated widely. The wood of this tree is very hard, its white flowers are sweetly fragrant, and it has a robust ability to thrive in many environments. In the wild, it provides shelter and nourishment to many animals, and it is a particular favorite of bees. The nine parts of The Locust Tree are each given the title of a particular characteristic of the tree. Written for guitarist Dieter Hennings and percussionist Paul Vaillancourt, The Locust Tree is also about the beautiful wood of the instruments they play. Percussion Needed: Marimba, woodblock, 5 temple blocks, guiro, maracas, and bamboo wind chimes.
