River Poem

From Wind Repertory Project
Tyler Grant

Tyler Grant


General Info

Year: 2018
Duration: c. 3:55
Difficulty: II-1/2 (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $55.00; (digital) - $55.00   |   Score Only (print) - $6.00


Instrumentation

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

  • Bass Drum
  • Finger Cymbals
  • Gong
  • Marimba
  • Rainstick
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Vibraphone
  • Wind Chimes


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Rivers have often served as a metaphor for life’s journey -- starting in one place and traveling to parts unknown. This metaphor is heard in this serene and contemplative work that uses a variety of colors and harmonies unique to young bands. Opulent mallet parts interact with optional piano to depict water gracefully cascading downwards.

- Program Note from publisher


River Poem was commissioned by the Muir Middle School Bands of Milford, Michigan. When their director, Kristin Blanchard, approached me about writing a work for her ensemble, she had the idea of surveying the students to generate inspiration and identify potential subject matter for the piece. Upon reading their many responses, I found two ideas to be common. First, the students felt proud of the diversity within their ensemble and school community. Second, they felt that they were each on a journey -- a journey that is individualized yet ultimately influenced by the people around them.

I found these ideas to be quite compelling and inspiring. As I continued to think about how this might manifest into a single metaphor, I thought about the many water systems within and around the midwestern states. In addition to the great lakes, many river systems connect regions of the states that lead to larger masses of water. This seemed to be the perfect metaphor to describe the ecosystem that the students have created within their band program -- a community with many differences, yet depends on one another in a journey to a bigger and brighter future. It is my hope that this work would encourage performers and audiences to consider how we interact with one another and how our own “journeys” have been positively shaped by those around us.

River Poem is dedicated to Brian Balmages -- a dear friend, teacher, and mentor who has positively impacted my life and career for more than a decade. I am grateful for all he has taught me and continues to teach me musically, professionally, and personally.

- Program Note by composer


Media


State Ratings

  • Alabama: 2019-20 Additions CC
  • Georgia: 19-20 Additions GR 3
  • South Carolina: II


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • Peshtigo (Wisc.) High School Band (Marcus Welander, conductor) - 30 October 2023
  • West High School (Wausau, Wis.) Symphonic Band (Marcus Welander, conductor) - 13 March 2023
  • Messiah University (Mechanicsburg, Penn.) Symphonic Winds (Travis Weller, conductor) - 26 February 2021
  • SJBODA Wind Ensemble (Glassboro, N.J.) (William Stowman, conductor) – 12 January 2020


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources

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