Canyon Exclamations

From Wind Repertory Project
Michael Miller

Michael Miller


This article is a stub. If you can help add information to it,
please join the WRP and visit the FAQ (left sidebar) for information.


General Info

Year: 2018
Duration: c. 5:20
Difficulty: V (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Michael J. Miller
Cost: Score and Parts (digital) - $200.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
C Piccolo
Flute I-II
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Soprano Clarinet I-II-III
B-flat Bass Clarinet
E-flat Alto Saxophone I-II
B-flat Tenor Saxophone
E-flat Baritone Saxophone
B-flat Trumpet I-II-III
Horn in F I-II-III-IV
Trombone I-II-III
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion I-II-III-IV

(percussion detail desired)


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the most stunning geographical locations in the United States. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canyon was named a national park in February of 1919. Canyon Exclamations is a celebration of the centennial of the Grand Canyon National Park.

The piece is comprised of two major sections which appear in ternary form (A-B-A). The A section includes three main themes: a fanfare, a hymnsong, and a march. The fanfare appears at the opening and close of the first A section. The short hymnsong is stated twice, and is each time followed by an aggressive episode that is reminiscent of the fanfare theme. The march theme serves as a transition back into the opening fanfare theme.

The melodic material of the slower B section is at least in part motivated by the A section's march theme. A woodwind duet and trumpet solo precede an emotional full ensemble statement. The intensity and somberness of the B section is meant to commemorate the many lives that were lost during westward expansion especially those of many Native Americans who originally inhabited the lands around the Grand Canyon.

Elements of the A and B sections are juxtaposed in the 'A Tempo' transition immediately following the close of the B section. This includes fanfare figures, part of the hymnsong, and the B section's duet theme which again is derived from the A section's march theme. The piece closes with a third and final statement of the opening fanfare theme followed by a jubilant coda.

- Program Note from publisher


"Preservation of one's own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for other cultures."
- Cesar Chavez


Media

(Needed - please join the WRP if you can help.)


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • University of Florida (Gainesville) Symphonic Band (John M. Watkins, Jr., conductor) – 29 November 2018 *Premiere Performance*


Works for Winds by This Composer


Resources