The Yellow Moon

Description

Flute, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Glockenspiel, Timpani, Percussion 1, Suspended Cymbal, Percussion 2, Triangle — When the moon appears orange or yellow, it simply means that the observer is looking at it through more layers of the atmosphere. Similar to the way in which the sun will look orange or red on the horizon, when the moon is low in the sky, the light from it will have to pass through more of the blue-absorbing atmosphere to reach the viewer's eye. By this time, only yellow, orange and red light will remain unabsorbed. A yellow moon is commonly called a "Harvest Moon." However, the phrase is more a reference to its earlier rising time during the fall, which often provides more light after sunset during the harvest season. The optical illusion of an increased moon size or proximity that often accompanies this yellow color is called the moon illusion.This piece is set in 4/4 time in concert Bb. I set the piece to have many lyrical moments. It is very important that your band pays attention to the tempo, shaping of phrases and the ritardandos. When the moon appears orange or yellow, it simply means we are seeing it through more layers of the atmosphere. This lyrical composition set in the accessible key of concert B-flat uses multiple musical layers to create a musical impression of the moon's appearance. Gentle percussion and small dissonant moments offer the opportunity to learn rubato phrasing. Some tempo variations help create a mysterious mood and approachable instrumental ranges allow performers to focus on creating emotional moments with a beautiful performance.

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