SINS OF THE LION

PROGRAM NOTE

Sins of the Lion

SINS OF THE LION is a dynamic and dramatic duet for two marimbas inspired by Dante Alighieri's vivid description of the 8th circle of Hell in his epic poem Inferno. The piece is comprised of five sections, each showcasing the various punishments for different types of violence as described by Dante.

The introduction sets the scene for the journey through Hell, leading into the first section, “The Violent Against Their Neighbors.” This section is characterized by energetic interplay between the two marimbas, representing the frenzied and destructive nature of those who harm others. The second section, “The Violent Against Themselves,” is a haunting contrast to the first, as it portrays the internal torment of those who inflict harm upon themselves. The third section, “The Voice of Virgil,” introduces Dante's guide through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, represented by a moment of calm and contemplation amidst the chaos. Finally, the piece comes to a climactic conclusion in the fourth section, “The Violent Against God, Nature, and Art,” as the marimbas engage in a furious and explosive dialogue, symbolizing the ultimate consequences of violence against the divine and the natural world.

SINS OF THE LION was commissioned by percussionist Sean Ritenaur and premiered with Matthew Krankowski at Greenfield Hall in the Manhattan School of Music during March of 2005.