Escape from the Deep

From Wind Repertory Project
Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages


General Info

Year: 2010
Duration: c. 4:45
Difficulty: II-1/2 (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: FJH Music Co.
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $60.00; (digital) - $60.00   |   Score Only (print) - $9.00


Instrumentation

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

  • Bass Drum
  • Bells
  • Brake Drum
  • Cabasa
  • Chimes
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Field Drum
  • Marimba
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Tambourine
  • Tam-Tam
  • Tom-Tom
  • Triangle
  • Xylophone


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Brian Balmages was inspired to write this piece by the Alex Kershaw book Escape from the Deep. Kershaw’s book tells a true story about the famous World War II U.S. Navy submarine, Tang. A legendary sub, Tang is regarded as one of the most successful allied submarines in the Pacific. Unfortunately, on its fifth patrol, Tang and its crew were found under attack. Five men bravely escaped from the emergency trunk and were joined by four others who were thrown from the bridge of the submarine. All nine men managed to tread water for over eight hours and were eventually rescued. Through Balmages musical work, Escape from the Deep, we look for hope in the midst of tragedy.

- Program Note by Lauren Ryals


Commissioned by the same group that premiered Moscow, 1941, this incredible new work chronicles the World War II miracle involving the only Americans to ever escape from a sunken submarine. Beginning with dark chords and a military field drum, the music evokes thoughts of honor and integrity. As events unfold, tempo becomes much faster and dissonant lines emerge. Excerpts from America occur in various forms, first in adrenaline-packed moments, then in a brief moment of solitude and calm. The final burst of energy portrays the daring escape. An incredible portrayal of courage, leadership, sacrifice, and survival against all odds.

- Program Note from publisher


Media


State Ratings

  • Alabama: Class CC
  • Georgia: III
  • Indiana: ISSMA JUNIOR BAND GROUP II
  • Maryland: II
  • Tennessee: II
  • West Virginia: III


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources