Half gold and half red phoenix is reborn after every 500 years. This mysterious bird has different meanings in different cultures. In Greek mythology, the Phoenix built a nest of aromatic twigs and set herself on fire. Three days after the death, she resurrected from the ashes. The Chinese empress was the only person who could carry the symbol of the Phoenix, and therefore associated with the feminine energy, while the dragon represented the male - the union of yin and yang. In the Japanese culture is the bird Phoenix along with the rising sun symbol of the immortal and is called "Ho-o" - the immortal bird.    

When I wrote Blue Memories a couple of years ago, I chose an enamel painting by Swedish artist, Bengt Berglund from late 60's as cover for the work. This painting I chose is part of a series of other enamel paintings by Berglund. For a few years now, I have been thinking of writing music for the remaining paintings in the series. Phoenix, Helios, Twilight Garden and Blue Memories are related to each other in terms of harmony, rhythm and character. The four pieces are written as standalone pieces, however the four pieces works well together as one substantial piece with several movements in it.   

Daniel Berg studied with the marimba virtuoso Robert van Sice at the Rotterdams Conservatorium, Holland (Europe’s first diploma program for solo marimba), 1993-1997. As a big thank Daniel dedicates this piece to his professor!