Moontowers

Description

Flute, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Percussion 3, Triangle, Bass Drum — The original intent for this piece was to evoke a fantasy atmosphere of huge mythical constructs, such as stone edifices, rising from a lunar surface softly illuminated by reflected light from another galactic source. It is meant to give an impression of a single vision, allowing the listener or player to imagine a personal interpretation of their own.xa0 The story behind this particular title comes from the late 19th century. Before the widespread use of electric streetlights, many large American and European cities erected large structures - some as tall as 165 feet - intended to brighten the cities at night at times when there was insufficient natural moonlight. Referred to at that time as Moonlight Towers, the only ones still in existence and in use today are found in Austin, Texas. These man-made wonders may not be as stunning as naturally-formed stone edifices, but they are nevertheless eye-catching. One of these structures in a large park is adorned with strands of lights every December to resemble a gigantic Christmas tree which can be seen for miles. In this composition, measure 81 through measure 97 depicts four of the remaining thirteen towers in four different settings in Austin. This piece is also intended to capture the wonder of these singular relics of history, with a fantasy atmosphere of their own. Written for intermediate-level bands, Moontowers intends to evoke a fantastical atmosphere containing huge mythical constructs – such as stone edifices – that rise from a lunar surface, softly illuminated by reflected light from another galactic source, while also allowing listeners to create their own, more specific visual interpretation. The piece also pays homage to the metal towers that once existed in cities through the U.S. intended to brighten the areas at times when there was insufficient natural moonlight. A perfect selection for those directors in search of a contemplative work to round out concert programs.

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