Artesian Spring Julie Giroux

An artesian spring is a natural spring that allows groundwater to push to the surface naturally due to pressure. As we listen to the beginning of the music, the soft musical tones of the piano remind the listener of the delicate nature of these springs. As the piano starts, we can almost envision water coming up through the ground and trickling down over mossy rocks into a pool below. The percussion and wind instruments enter in a staggered effect, creating layers of texture and colors not unlike the layers of rock that cradle the spring itself.

The 6/8 meter reminds us that artesian springs are everlasting, yet ever changing. The music of the middle section moves between different soloists in a playful manner reminding us that springs can bring us peace during times of stress or sorrow. The piece ends just as it arrived, with a calming, reflective tone. This leaves the listener with a sense of inward reflection as if looking into the mirrored surface of the crystal clean water.