THE CAT'S FUGUE

According to an eighteenth-century legend, Domenico Scarlatti was struck by inspiration after a cat tiptoed across the royal harpsichord at the Spanish Court. He composed a fugue, using as its theme the stumbling line of errant notes produced by the feline’s paws.

This is my own fugue built on that very same theme. Fugues, with their intricate structure and complex contrapuntal techniques, are often perceived as academic exercises. Yet they have surprising potential to reward listeners when several independent musical voices (four in this instance) coalesce to form something greater than the sum of their parts. Think of it like kittens assembling into a flash mob and joyously romping over the keys.

— Greg Anderson

INCLUDED ON THE ALBUM REIMAGINE

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