Beyond the Lighted Tower (2018)

Grade 4 • 7:30 • published by Sonic Soundscape Productions

Performance: Rhode Island College Wind Ensemble | Conductor: Joseph Foley

PROGRAM NOTES

I chose this title because of Michigan City’s iconic Light House which has been an important landmark for years and years, and the only one in Indiana. But the real emphasis I am suggesting in this piece (and portrayed in the spirited style of the work) is what lies “beyond the lighted tower,” that being a vibrant community rich in history, culture, and even a municipal band. Whereas the light house gives us a bearing, it’s the people that create the vitality of the community and one that should be celebrated. Our course, the municipal band is one of those iconic organizations in this community and a milestone of 150 years is certainly worth marking. Whereas the Michigan City lighthouse has brought in ships to its ports for commerce, the MCMB has brought in generations of musicians to gather and share the joy of music (between itself as well as its listeners). Therefore, this piece is sort of a metaphor for the beacon that the Michigan City Municipal Band is to the vibrant community of Michigan City, just as the lighthouse is a beacon to the geographical location of the town.

INSTRUMENTATION

Winds: Piccolo, Flute 1 & 2, Oboe 1 & 2, Bassoon 1 & 2, Bb Clarinet 1 - 3, Bb Bass Clarinet, Eb Alto Saxophones 1 & 2, Bb Tenor Saxophone, Eb Baritone Saxophone

Brass: Bb Trumpet 1 - 3, F Horn 1 - 4, Trombone 1 - 3, Euphonium, Tuba

Percussion: Timpani, Percussion 1 (snare drum, bass drum, 4 concert toms, wood block, tambourine, crash cymbals, finger cymbals, bar chimes, triangle), Percussion 2 (crash cymbals, suspended cymbal, vibraslap, shaker, sleigh bells), Percussion 3 (chimes, xylophone, orchestra bells)