Distant Promises
8-Part Trombone Choir
ca. 5'
Fresh harmonies, lyrical trombone writing, flutter tonguing, glissandi, and a unique conductor-led climax create a beautiful dramatic arc.
AT A GLANCE
Style
Lyrical • Harmonically Rich • Dramatic
Selected Performances & Recognition
2023 International Trombone Festival
2026 American Trombone Workshop hosted by The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”
The Juilliard School
Columbus State University
University of Alabama
What Makes It Unique
Tasteful glissandi, flutter tonguing, and a unique conductor-led climax take advantage of the trombone choir's distinctive abilities while remaining lyrical, melodic, and audience-friendly.
Musical Influences
Arvo Pärt
Morten Lauridsen – O Magnum Mysterium
Eric Whitacre
Cathedral Acoustics
Why I Wrote This Piece
Written for the Colorado State University Trombone Choir and premiered at the International Trombone Festival, exploring the lyrical and expressive potential of the trombone ensemble.
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PROGRAM NOTE
As you travel westward from Denver along Interstate-70, the once far-off mountains begin to close in around you. There are short glimpses of the landscape, but soon you are completely enveloped by the peaks; only able to see a short distance away.
When you enter the Eisenhower Tunnel, (the highest elevation tunnel in the United States) you are suddenly engulfed by artificial light and concrete. The distant sunlight emanating from the tunnel’s end is a promise of the beauty on the other side. Upon exit, your pupils are suddenly flooded and there is explosion of magnificent scenery as open sky and massive mountains surround you.
Distant Promises intends to reflect this experience in music. While there are brief moments of beauty along the way, the piece seems to promise something more. This is finally fulfilled at the transcendental "Maestoso" in the final minute of the work.
Original Cover Photo by
Lasse Møller
Questions about the piece?
Please reach out if there's anything I can do to help as you explore this piece.