« Known and Unknown » (2021) was written in memory of pianist Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa’s mother Inger, a meditation on Inger’s favourite Bach, « Ich habe genug ». (Literally « I have enough », better translated as « I am content ».) The piece extends and transforms the first movement of J.S. Bach’s Cantata in the manner of a fantasia, ending with chords that are struck and removed in sequence, revealing harmonies as notes are taken away.

« Known and Unknown » was commissioned through the generosity of The McGrane-Pearson Endowment Fund (held at The Vancouver Foundation) and Ken Gracie and Phillip Waddell. Thanks to David Pay and Music on Main.

Premiere September 23, 2022, SUM Gallery, Vancouver, Canada.

Duration ca. 9 minutes, 45 seconds