Composed between September 2016 and February 2017, The Clouds comprise a collection of ten piano pieces (one for each type of cloud) which could be described as program music that's post-impressionistic in style. As opposed to my previous virtuosic compositions, The Clouds mostly portray transparent images that, although technically and structurally nearly minimalistic, are not lacking in tension. Each piece corresponds to the surface and height of a cloud formation. The biggest challenges in these pieces are the highly elaborate use of all three piano pedals as well as the dynamic diversity, both serving as Tonmalerei (tonal painting). Another distinguishing feature of the composition is the array of improvisational elements and the general rhythmical flexibility. Just as each cloud formation rises in altitude, every piece is set higher and higher on the piano leaving the music evaporate out of the instrument.

Do you have any thoughts on this piece? I'd love to hear them!