Earth Hour 2

Programme Notes

Earth Hour 2 is the sequel to my first hour-long solo piano piece written for the dark, and it comes a full decade after the first Earth Hour. Ten years ago, when I first began my artivist journey advocating for a more sustainable future and reduced carbon emissions, the urgency of climate change still felt distant, almost abstract. Sadly, despite the progress the environmental movement has made, that fight is far from over.

This composition is my response to that ongoing struggle—a reflection on how much has changed and how much still remains to be done. Like its predecessor, Earth Hour 2 offers moments for deep contemplation, inviting the listener to immerse oneself in darkness and reflect on their place in the world and their role in shaping a more sustainable future. But this piece takes things further.

There is a palpable sense of urgency and dissonance woven throughout Earth Hour 2. A decade ago, we knew about the dangers of climate change, but the full force of its consequences still felt far-off. Today, it’s impossible to ignore how real and immediate the crisis has become. As you listen, I invite you to reflect deeply, yes, but also to feel the weight of the music—its dissonant and driving tones are meant to resonate not only emotionally, but with a sense of critical importance. Let it inspire action, fuel the urgency to demand change… now.

– Frank Horvat

NOTE to Performer

To effectively convey the symbolism of the 60-minute duration, it is recommended that the pianist use an earpiece and follow a metronome at the indicated tempo during performance.