“Morning Star”
(Composed, arranged and orchestrated by Reynold D. Philipsek copyright 2023 Zino-Rephi Music BMI)
All instruments played by Reynold except
Bass clarinet and alto flute by Allen L. Asmus
Recorded by Stymie Seamans
Video production by Rene Erickson
(Recorded September 20, 2023)
I’ve used that Maurice Ravel quote before (the one in the heading). Ravel said that one of music’s primary purposes was to “better express life’s mysterious thrill.”
Of course, music can also express playfulness, love, humor, sorrow, joy, etc. When I think back on the real reasons I became a musician and have been driven to write and record music, it’s precisely because of what Ravel was saying. I was too young when I began as a musician to have framed this purpose in such a poetic way, but it really was (and is) a key motivation. This song’s intention falls into that category.
This piece came about very spontaneously about two years ago. The “spontaneous” songs are always the best it seems to me. I also was going for a sort of “chamber music” vibe.
Al Asmus (alto flute and bass clarinet) is an old friend and has played on many of my records. His subtle, sympathetic and solid presence is always a definite plus.
(Headphones are almost essential on this one.)
Be kind.
Love,
Reyn