---

Programme Note

Ralph Black spread the gospel of “symphony orchestra” throughout the land. He was a “circuit rider” for the American Symphony Orchestra League in teaching orchestra people things they needed to know and helping them "keep the faith.” There is probably no city or region in our country that has not benefited from his visits and advice. With his passing we all suffered a personal loss as well as a professional one.

Shortly after Ralph Black’s death, Peter Kermani, chairman of the Leagues’ board of directors suggested the idea of my composing a tribute to this special friend of music. Chief Executive Officer Catherine French and the board concurred, and I agreed. In its two movements, Notes of Remembrance reflects the Ralph we knew. There are musical references to his fondness for Strauss, Rossini, and Mozart. The “Eulogy” sounds a nostalgia for those years when Ralph was so much a part of our musical life; the “Epilogue” celebrates the infectious enthusiasm and spirit he transmitted so effectively to so many.

The work is scored for 2 flutes, oboe, 2 clarinets, bassoon, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, timpani, percussion, and strings. It was composed and orchestrated in August 1989, and is dedicated to the American Symphony Orchestra League in memory of Ralph Black.

--Morton Gould