A Tale of Victory
The Hero’s Journey is a familiar story. A Tale of Victory features heroic themes which paint a picture of this journey. However, no story is complete without conflict. Our hero endures an arduous battle highlighted by a tense melody with strife-filled harmonic progressions. The sky breaks open and the sun shines once again as the hero reigns victorious and relishes in that victory.
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Sing A New Song
In life, there are many moments of reflection. Simultaneously, we are constantly looking toward the future. Amidst our states of reflection and contemplation, it is tempting to dismiss the present moment. However, it is in that moment when life actually happens. Sing a New Song captures our reflection of the past, contemplation of the future, and life in the present. Whatever regrets or worries may exist, we can all sing a new song for the present, because each moment is a gift.
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Lord Unto Me
Lord Unto Me combines selections from William M. Runyan’s (1870-1957) hymn tune FAITHFULNESS with some newly composed music. Thomas O. Chisholm (1866 – 1960) penned lyrics to this tune which now comprises the well-known hymn, Great Is Thy Faithfulness. The circumstances of life can make singing this text difficult, which is reflected in the tense harmonies used throughout this piece.
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A London Fanfare
During the winter of 2022-2023, the Olivet Nazarene University Tiger Marching Band traveled to London and performed in the London New Year’s Day Parade. There are few stages as exciting as one in front of the whole world. Joy and excitement rang all throughout London on January 1st, 2023. A London Fanfare was written to capture the emotions of that moment.
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When Heaven Calls
On February 18th, 2019, Diane Cater was tragically taken from this world by Leukemia. She was the human equivalent of a ray of sunshine and brought joy into every conversation. Her heart to serve others and the Lord is something that will forever be admired. When Heaven Calls is both a tribute to her life and a documentation of my emotions while processing her decline and health and death. Parts of this piece express grief and anguish, while some express the joy and light that Diane brought to this world. I will forever be proud to call her my aunt.
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This Too Shall Pass
The tumultuous winds of life often shake us and pull us in many directions. In the breaks between those moments, we feel peace. Suffering may last for a season, but there exists peace within that suffering. Life would not be what it is without these two opposites, for without one we do not have the other. This Too Shall Pass captures both extremes of chaos and peace. God is good through it all, and we can rest in that truth.
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High Rollin’
High Rollin’ is an upbeat, straight-ahead swing tune that takes the listener on an energetic journey. Comprised of one main theme and some bluesy harmonies, this piece is sure to leave you tapping your foot and nodding your head until the very end.
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Chaos Dance
Chaos Dance is a minimalistic piece for three mallet instruments. There are three main themes throughout the piece. In some instances, they complement one another; in others, they clash, building tension. The harmonies become progressively complex and uncomfortable, leading to a climax of ascending diminished chords. Chaos is felt not only in the clustered harmony but also in the sheer silence. This chaos is never fully resolved, as the chaos of life often tends to feel.
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A Fugue For Blazhevich
Included in the works of Russian musician and composer, Vladislav Blazhevich (1881 – 1942), is a book of clef studies for trombone. This book features exercises in 3 different clefs (bass, tenor, and alto). A Fugue For Blazhevich was inspired by #40 in that book. The fugue subject, first stated by the trombone, is one of the melodies in Blazhevich’s original work.
Suite For Woodwind Quintet
Suite For Woodwind Quintet features three movements of contrasting moods. The Hymn is a graceful ballad with lush melodies passed around the ensemble. The Folk Dance is light-hearted, quick-moving, and might just make you want to tap your foot and dance! The Chorale is another peaceful movement featuring lush and triumphant melodies. This piece will take you on a musical journey you are sure to enjoy.