Program Notes

Nearly three decades separate the composition of the first and second piano trios which also show a marked growth and difference between the two works. Whereas McKinley composed his first trio that reveled in modernism, the second is a work that blends neo-romanticism the chromaticism reminiscent of Brahms' second and third trios.

Dedicated to the Golan-Kaplan-Carr Trio, this work is cast in three distinctive movements. Whereas Trio No. 1 has melodic fabric built on brief patterns, the second's trio’s material embodies longer melodic lines. The first movement, while it does not follow the form of a strict classical sonata, develops the opening material and themes in a similar fashion. The second movement is an assortment of musical thoughts ranging from a demonic dance to an exalted, waltz-like second subject. McKinley decides to disrupt the train of thought by segueing to other sections which intensify until the coda. An autumnal, yet sentimental tango opens the third movement, its bold romantic aura gives way to a frenetic section complete with jagged rhythms and bustling neo-classicism recalling the composer's early infatuation with Stravinsky.

—Kevin Scott (from MS101)