Into the Blue (2003)

for Full Orchestra

Duration: 9 min

Instrumentation: 2,2,2,2 -4,3,3,1, timp, 2 perc, harp, pno, strings

Percussion details: xylophone, Glockenspiel, bass drum, crash cymbals, suspended cymbal, triangle – 2 players

 

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced

Commission: Youth Symphony of Kansas City

Premiere: Youth Symphony of Kansas City, Glenn Block, conductor

April 27, 2003; Overland Park, KS

 

Program Notes: The phrase “Into the Blue” invokes thoughts of a journey into the unknown, an openness toward new possibilities, all accompanied by a playful, adventurous spirit and a big dose of spontaneity. I imagine a journey from one place to another without a direct route pre-mapped between start and finish. These descriptions of “Into the Blue” hold true for the composition as well. The piece is propelled by the events set in motion in the beginning and ideas are bounced playfully through the orchestra. The unexpected is embraced, spontaneous detours are celebrated and we journey together with the music into the distance, allowing events to unfold naturally and fully. “Into the Blue” was commissioned and premiered by the Youth Symphony of Kansas City.