“Solemnity”  was arranged about a year ago for piano solo. Last November, I had the privilege of playing with a cellist and violinist at a recent church service and asked them if they’d be interested in playing an arrangement of“Solemnity” for violin, cello and piano when they returned later in the month. They said yes and so the next time they came to play at our church, they were kind enough to provide a wonderful recording.

Follow this link to hear the piano solo and for a studio license of the piano solo arrangement.

Follow this link to hear the piano solo and for a single license of the piano solo arrangement.

Why “Solemnity?” I was reminded of this pensive movement a while back when watching the movie, The King’s Speech. The music powerfully sets the scene when King George VI, played by Collin Firth, awaits the delivery of his speech VISS 88PK Solemnity for Violin, Cello and Piano.compressed VISS 88PK Solemnity Piano, Violin and Celloannouncing that Great Britain would be joining World War II. The repetitive melody and soulful counter melody made such an impact on me that I wanted to play it myself. After months of doodling with it, my abridged interpretation has been completed.

Over a year ago, I knew I wanted a cover image to fit the pensive mood of the piece, and decided upon a photo of a window painted with raindrops taken by my mom, Joanne Alberda.  It reminds me of one of those days filled with resolve to get through whatever the tasks and trials that lie ahead. Sometimes words just can’t express the determination and dedication of resolution. Music and images speak when words can’t.

Solemnity is an arrangement “owed” to Beethoven and dedicated to all those resolved to get through a day, a month, a year,—a storm—that is anything but sunny.

NOTE: The recording includes two repeats (not indicated in the score) that we added to lengthen the piece.

When a “feel-good” tune just doesn’t seem right, Solemnity will.