Abalone Sunset

Description

Flute, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bassoon, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion 1, Bells, Mallet Percussion 2, Vibraphone, Mallet Percussion 3, Marimba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Bass Drum, Finger Cymbals, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Rain Stick, Triangle — Each year my family vacations at the beach. It is a peaceful time to recharge, refresh, laugh, and share precious time together. I am constantly amazed by the life of the ocean and the stunning scenes that I find in the beauty of nature at sunrise and sunset. Abalone Sunset is a small glimpse of my perception of evening time at the beach. The piece is about two and a half minutes in length, and the technical range should be very comfortable for most mid-level musicians. Throughout the work it is vital that each musician listens for the lead line and balances their part accordingly. There are a few opportunities (in flute, alto saxophone, and trumpet) that are marked as an optional solo. In terms of the harmonic writing, there are several instances of tension (dissonance) within the sound canvas. I would ask directors to encourage young musicians to play with confidence and embrace each of those moments. It is my hope the piece provides a meaningful opportunity for students to play with expression in a lyrical, legato style. Thank you in advance for your support of this music, and I wish you and your ensemble well as you take in an Abalone Sunset. Abalone Sunset captures a glimpse of evening hours at the beach. Written in such a way as to inspire confidence in intermediate players, optional solo opportunities are marked in several instruments. Within the harmony, there are several instances of tension (dissonance) within the sound canvas, expressing the glow of soft color and changing light as the sun sets over a stunning ocean scene.