Resistance
Garth Baxter, Composer
Category: Piano
Instrumentation: piano solo
Duration: 6 minutes
Difficulty: Advanced
Publisher: Alymar
Resistance is a highly emotional solo piano work that begins in atonality and gradually moves toward a strongly tonal conclusion. Its form is related to classical sonata form, with a lyrical A theme colored by dissonant harmonies and a highly chromatic, fast-moving B theme set largely in triple meter.
The work creates a dramatic journey from tension toward release, moving through dense, angular passages, rhythmic drive, and moments of expansive romantic lyricism. In its final pages, Resistance resolves into clearer tonal harmony, reflecting Baxter’s commitment to melodic continuity, expressive contrast, and the coexistence of modern harmonic tension with traditional musical direction.
Written for advanced pianists, Resistance calls for dramatic pacing, rhythmic command, strong control of color, and the ability to shape a long emotional arc from dissonant intensity to tonal resolution. The piece has generated strong audience response in performance and is well suited for contemporary solo piano recitals.
“Resistance is a glorious stance in favor of tonal, lyrical music in an age of atonality and the breakdown of harmony. Here we can hear the musical diction of the before mentioned statement clearly, as Baxter takes us through dense angular passages that open up to grand romantic statements in a moving solo piano composition.”
“Resistance is a solo piano composition that is a prime example of Baxter’s harmonic style and command of the modern classical genre, while still maintaining a melodic structure that is easy to follow. The rhythmic structures are just as interesting as the colorful harmonies. The upper extensions of the chords are focused on creating beautiful musical colors. Baxter also fashions tension and release with the use of driving rhythms and poly-rhythmic figures. The form has defined climaxes and melodic developments, at almost seven minutes, the piece takes the listener on journey of musical exploration. The middle section uses space just as much as it does intense chord voicings and rippling arpeggios. Even though the music is intense, Baxter always maintains a balance of melodic flow and tension and release. The quiet section after the big dissent chords are even more impactful because of the intensity leading up to the moment. Baxter’s cadential section is sublime: he takes us back to simple romantic harmonies and melodies, ending with a clear and restful cadence.”