The Darkness Declares (1986)

for wind ensemble

Duration: ca. 8 minutes

Commissioned by the third St Magnus (Orkney Islands) Festival

Written for a wind ensemble of High School students, this short work is scored for 2 fls; small clar in Eb; 2 cls in Bb; alto cl in Eb; bass cl in Bb; 2 hns; 2 tpts; flugel hn in Bb; bass tuba in Eb; 4 perc.

There is a gradual transition from slow to fast. Static chords lead to a Lento chorale. This is followed by Andante, which becomes a kind of march marked Tenebroso. The next Allegro Velato is highly rhythmic. This soon broadens (Meno Mosso) into a climax which elaborates and builds on fragments of the previous Chorale. The piece is really for young players with experience of ensemble playing (Ass. Board Grade V+, but talented younger players might be included).

Other Music for Young Players or Amateurs:
Infinity Contained
Timeflight
Suivez la Piste!
Dayspring - a Madrigal for May
Beggarman-Thief!
Three Carols for 1984
Alice First and Last
By Fire [Per Ignem]
The Owl and the Pussycat
Four Traditional Christmas Carol Arrangements
Fanfares and Nocturnes
Ring Out Wild Bells!