Written for Galán Trio’s Kinesis project, Ánimo betrays the theme of kinetic energy with a focus on potential energy. The word ánimo became a favorite word of mine while in Nicaragua from 2010 to 2012. The Spanish word might be defined as spiritual energy or enthusiasm manifest in courage, faith, and hope. After the loss of three grandparents over the past few years, my ánimo has found new meaning as I have focused on building family relationships. Woven into the piece is a fragment from a religious children’s song “Families Can Be Together Forever” that teaches that family bonds will continue after death. The music hobbles through nostalgia, excitement, warmth, yearning, and questioning before mustering final courage that quickly evaporates into the same promising sparkle of hope that begins the piece. The work is dedicated to my grandparents who have passed on, who instilled ánimo into me with their compassion and care.

Premiered by Galán Trio as part of their Midwest Kinesis Tour in November 2022:

November 1, Mairs Concert Hall, Macalester College, St. Paul, MN.

November 3, Lloyd Ultan Recital Hall, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN.

November 4, Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Luther College, Decorah, IA.

November 5, Nola Starling Recital Hall, Viterbo University, La Crosse, WI.

November 7, Duesenberg Recital Hall, Valparaiso State University, Valparaiso, IN.

November 8, Boyce Recital Hall, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN.

November 9, Fine Arts Recital Hall, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL.