Okefenokee: Land of Trembling Earth

Description

Flute, Oboe, Flute 2, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion 1, Chime, Mallet Percussion 2, Marimba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Cabasa, Suspended Cymbal, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Gong, Claves, Tom-tom — The Okefenokee Swamp is slated as one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia. The name has two different meanings: first being bubbling waters, and the second meaning Land of Trembling Earth, so named because the peat bog (land) moves when you walk on it, because it is actually floating on water. Although the Oconi are the earliest known inhabitants, this piece is written to honor the Chehaw Indians who gave the swamp its name. The beginning of the piece depicts the grandeur of the over 438,000 acre swamp (one of the five largest swamps in the world). The middle section has a flute solo that depicts the primitive life of the early inhabitants. For a more authentic portrayal, the use of a recorder, especially an alto recorder should be used. The piece ends with a spirited dance, beginning with the thunderous roll of the timpaniand bass drums. Named Land of the Trembling Earth because the peat bog, which floats on water, moves when walked upon, the Okefenokee Swamp is a natural wonder. Starting mysteriously with a full-band sound, moving through a middle section with a flute or recorder solo that depicts the life of the early inhabitants, and ending with a spirited dance that features woodwind runs, brass countermelodies and thunderous timpani and bass drum parts, this unique composition offers performers the chance to perform a programmatic work that will challenge and entertain at the same time.

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