(Composed and performed by Reynold D. Philipsek 2015 copyright Zino-Rephi Music BMI)
Recorded by Stymie Seamans
17th century Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer had such an effect on me that in my early thirties I decided to go to art school part time to learn how to paint with oils. After two years I realized that as a painter I was merely an enthusiastic hobbyist but I’m glad I learned how to draw, the process of painting with oils and I did manage to create a few paintings that aren’t awful. In the end, my own natural hand at painting came closer to Frans Hals (another 17th century Dutch artist).
This piece for two guitars is my homage to and appreciation of Vermeer. It begins and ends with a musical canon (like a “round” the same music begins at different entry points to create musical counterpoint).
Because Vermeer was such a master of form and balance I thought that the inclusion of a canon was the right touch to precede and follow the improv section. This is a very obscure piece from my already rather obscure repertoire but when occasionally stumbling back upon it I feel a little pride. A late actor friend of mine (now performing in another dimension) used to call stage acting “shouting in the dark”. That statement also applies to songwriting and recording as well. In the end, all one can do is to try and reach out.
Remember, be kind.
Stay well.
Love,
Reyn