Carpe Diem

In Horace's Ode, Leuconoe is encouraged to indulge in the present, as the future is uncertain. The Latin phrase carpe diem is popularly translated as "seize the day," although a more literal translation of carpe would be "pluck" as in the picking or plucking of fruit.

"Carpe Diem" begins with rich sonorous textures, evolving into a rhythmic mixed meter dance accompanied by tambourine. Like a party winding down, it finishes as it began with lush chords like a big red wine. "Carpe Diem" was commissioned in 2008 by the Northwest Chamber Chorus (Seattle) in celebration of its 40th anniversary.