A New Horizon
Cait Nishimura
Ensemble: Concert Band
Grade: 3
Duration: 03:30
Year of Composition: 2020
Commissioned by: University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band (Christopher Baumgartner, conductor)
Premiered by: University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band (Christopher Baumgartner, conductor)
Date of Premiere: December 9, 2021
Publisher: Cait Nishimura
Year of Publication: 2021
Publisher Catalog Number: CNM028
Available: Yes
How to Acquire: Publisher, Purchase
Links:
Flutes 1,2
Oboe
Bassoon
B♭ Clarinets 1,2
B♭ Bass Clarinet
E♭ Alto Saxes 1,2
B♭ Tenor Sax
E♭ Baritone Sax
B♭ Trumpets 1,2
F Horns 1,2
Trombones 1,2
Euphonium
Tuba
Piano
Timpani
Chimes
Percussion 1 (Glockenspiel, Marimba)
Percussion 2 (Suspended Cymbal, Triangle, Tom)
Program Notes:
A New Horizon is inspired by Oklahoma skies, the sense of belonging found in community bands, and the optimism in being open to beginning again. This work was commissioned by Christopher Baumgartner and the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band in celebration of their 20th anniversary. The band is part of the New Horizons International Music Association, a network of community music ensembles for adults.
When Chris approached me about this project, we had a wonderful conversation about how to create a meaningful collaboration with his community band members. We agreed that it would make for a memorable experience if the musicians had the opportunity to interact with me throughout the creative process – not just once the piece was finished. I met with the band, heard them play, answered their questions about being a composer, and invited them to tell me what their band experiences meant to them so that I could create a special piece inspired by their stories. They sent me photos of their favourite local vistas so I could see what the horizon looked like from their perspective. I was able to incorporate these wonderful sources of inspiration, as well as a variation of the melody from “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” (from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, Oklahoma!). This experience helped me determine that I much prefer this highly collaborative approach to commissioned works, and I’m so grateful to have worked with this community.
(Cait Nishimura)
