Pas de trois (2025)

I. Piano (poem by D.H. Lawrence)
II. The Violist (poem by Michael Stephen Brown)
III. Soprano (poem by Rita Dove)

Pas de trois (2024) is written for the SPA Trio—three dear friends and longtime collaborators: soprano Susanna Phillips, violist Paul Neubauer, and pianist Anne-Marie McDermott. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of performing with each of them, writing pieces for them, and experiencing their unique personalities and artistry firsthand. When they asked me to compose a piece, I sought poetry that would reflect their individuality as people, performers, and friends. For Anne-Marie, Piano by D.H. Lawrence felt perfect—it evokes a quiet, nostalgic introspection that mirrors her profound and thoughtful artistry. I took a different route for Paul, writing my own poem, The Violist, a playful ode to the bold confidence of a musician who thrives in the spotlight. (Paul assures me he approves.) For Susanna, Soprano by Rita Dove captures music’s power to transcend, reflecting her gift for transforming into something otherworldly.

Together, these songs explore a delicate interplay of introspection, playfulness, and
transcendence—an intricate dance, a true pas de trois. Or, as Paul might say, “Finally, a work that understands me.”

Pas de trois was commissioned by Carol and Ron Sekura for the 2025 Ocean Reef Chamber Music Festival for the SPA Trio.

— Michael Stephen Brown