T I M B E R E D   B E L L S (2011)

For Symphonic Brass Ensemble and Percussion

Awarded a 2012 ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award

Commissioned by the Tanglewood Music Center with the generous support of the Merwin Geffen, M.D.

and Norman Solomon, M.D. New Commissions fund

Program Note:

In writing a piece for the Tanglewood Music Center Fellows, I wanted to capture my memories of the open spaces in the Berkshires, including the view from atop Yokun Ridge of an expansive, wooded landscape, and the sound of outdoor brass playing reverberating off the hills in haunting tones. The work I have written explores these impressions of space and distance, as well as the variety of sound colors that brass can produce.

“Timbered Bells” is structured in three parts. The opening and closing sections feature varied fanfares and expressive flourishes. At the center of the piece is a quiet theme that emerges from the distance and grows in intensity, arriving ablaze at the outset of the final part.

I would like to express my thanks for the generous support from the Merwin Geffen, M.D. and Norman Solomon, M.D. New Commissions Fund.

Recording:

Excerpts:

    Excerpt 1:

    Excerpt 2:

    Excerpt 3:

Full Recording:

Total duration: c. 10 mins

 

Performers: Tanglewood Music Center Fellows - Robert Trevino, conductor

 

Past performances:

- Tanglewood Music Center Fellows, Seiji Ozawa Hall (July 3, 2011)

- Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Brass Choir (February 12, 2012)