Jötenheim (from “As Above, So Below”) by Nathan Daughtrey

Jotenheim is the third and final movement from the 15-minute work As Above, So Below. Commissioned by the Woodbury High School Percussion Ensemble (Minnesota) and a consortium of other ensembles, the large-scale work delves into the universe of Norse mythology. It centers on Yggdrasil, the “Tree of Life,” wth branches that extend to all nine of the worlds that make up the Norse mythological universe. The tree’s three roots connect three of these worls – Asgard, Niflheim, and Jötenheim – which make up the three movements of the piece.

Jötenheim: The Land of the Giants, features a vast, mighty wilderness with deep, dark forests and mountain peaks. Enemies of the gods, the giants have experienced plenty of battles here. It is also the home of Mímir’s well of wisdom. Driven by a relentless, low ostinato in the piano and marimba, this movement is filled with excitement from beginning to end.