Into the Blue (2003/2018)

for Concert Band

Duration: 9 minutes

Instrumentation: Large Concert Band (see perusal score for details)

Commission: his Concert Band version was commissioned for the 2018 Lesbian and Gay Band Association National Conference

Premiere: May 2018; Kansas City, MO

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” for orchestra was commissioned and premiered by the Youth Symphony of Kansas City in 2003. This Concert Band version was commissioned for the 2018 Lesbian and Gay Band Association National Conference and was premiered in May 2018.