| Interview with Russell Peterson |
Russell Peterson, professor of saxophone at Lawrence University in Appleton WI, interviewed David Maslanka in 1998 after two world premieres there. This lengthy transcription deals with a wide range of topics, including the compositional process, his saxophone music, especially the Sonata for Saxophone and piano, the relationship between the composer and the audience, and much more. |
| Some things that are true |
Maslanka reflects on truth, religion, creativity, musical language and on being an artist at the end of the 20th Century. |
| The roots and purpose of music |
A few thoughts on the roots of music and its purpose in everyday life. |
| Composing and its relationship to the community |
Thoughts on the relationship between the audience and the composer and the nature of music. |
| Further notes on music performance |
Two quotes from the scientist and philosopher Rene Dubos in his 1962 book The Torch of Life and commentary. |
| Music and Healing |
Comments given before a performance of Montana Music: Trio for Violin, Cello and Piano. |
| Thoughts on Composing |
Excerpts from letters to young composers. |
| Dangerous times |
Comments on the increasing divisiveness of community and the importance of the creative impulse. |
| Music in Life |
A few thoughts about how music acts in our lives |
