Wilderness
Cait Nishimura
Ensemble: Concert Band
Grade: 4
Duration: 04:30
Year of Composition: 2021
Commissioned by: The Midwest Clinic
Premiered by: Aledo M.S. Honor Winds (Joey Qualls, conductor)
Date of Premiere: December 16, 2021
Publisher: Cait Nishimura
Year of Publication: 2021
Publisher Catalog Number: CNM039
Available: Yes
How to Acquire: Publisher, Purchase
Links:
Flutes 1,2
Oboe
Bassoon
B♭ Clarinets 1,2,3
B♭ Bass Clarinet
E♭ Alto Saxes 1,2
B♭ Tenor Sax
E♭ Baritone Sax
B♭ Trumpets 1,2,3
F Horns 1,2
Trombones 1,2
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Chimes
Marimba
Percussion 1 (Vibraphone, Glockenspiel, Bass Drum)
Percussion 2 (Snare Drum, Tambourine, Bass Drum)
Percussion 3 (Glockenspiel, Suspended or Ride Cymbal)
Commissioned by the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in celebration of their 75th anniversary.
Five dollars from each purchase of this piece is donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Program Notes:
My fascination with the natural world began in childhood, and it wasn’t long before I learned about the harmful impacts of human activity on the environment. Old growth forests and essential ecosystems like wetlands were being replaced by housing developments and highways. As a child, I felt helpless about it all; now, as an adult, I know that there is so much we can all do to be part of the solution. Sometimes, we just need to feel empowered first, and I believe art is one of the most effective ways to inspire others.
This piece was commissioned by the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in celebration of their 75th anniversary. Wilderness celebrates and honours Earth’s remaining wild spaces and the people who fight to protect them. Through this music, I explore the range of emotions I experience as an environmentalist, and I express my gratitude for all that nature has given me. This piece is a call-to-action for all of us to do our part in spreading awareness about climate change, to reflect on our relationship with nature, and to deepen our respect for the stewards of this land.
(Cait Nishimura)
