Matériel : Conducteur et Parties séparées
SKU: HL.14020975
UPC: 884088860066. 8.75x8.25 inches.
Chamber opera in a prologue and one act. A ghost story telling of the mysterious disappearance of three lighthouse keepers in the Hebrides. This is a mystery story in the form of a chamber opera. The prologue is set as a court of enquiry into the unexplained disappearance of the three keepers from a lighthouse. Questions are posed by a solo horn, which may sound from among the audience, and three officers give answer. Gradually, they move from straight testimony into fantastical imaginings of evil during a 'flashback' to the lighthouse; but then we snap back to the courtroom. In the main act the three singers become the vanished keepers. They have been together for months, long enough to be fully aware of each other's weaknesses; petty bickerings suggest a relationship which is stable, but liable to become highly unstable at any moment. They sing songs to reduce the tension, Blazes beginning with a rough ballad of street violence, accompanied by violin and banjo. Sandy's song, with cello and out-of-tune upright piano, is a thinly disguised description of sexual bliss, and Arthur's with brass and clarinet, is a tub-thumping hymn. But the songs serve only to resurrect in their minds ghosts from the past, and as the fog descends each of the keepers becomes convinced that he is being claimed by the Beast. They prepare to meet its dazzling eyes, which become the lights of the relief vessel, and the three men reappear as officers, met at the lighthouse only by an infestation of rats. They leave, and at the end the last hours of Blazes, Sandy and Arthur begin to play over again. Libretto only. Duration c. 1h 25mins.
SKU: HL.14008404
UPC: 884088435356. 8.75x11.75x0.406 inches.
Chamber opera in a prologue and one act. A ghost story telling of the mysterious disappearance of three lighthouse keepers in the Hebrides. This is a mystery story in the form of a chamber opera. The prologue is set as a court of enquiry into the unexplained disappearance of the three keepers from a lighthouse. Questions are posed by a solo horn, which may sound from among the audience, and three officers give answer. Gradually, they move from straight testimony into fantastical imaginings of evil during a 'flashback' to the lighthouse; but then we snap back to the courtroom. In the main act the three singers become the vanished keepers. They have been together for months, long enough to be fully aware of each other's weaknesses; petty bickerings suggest a relationship which is stable, but liable to become highly unstable at any moment. They sing songs to reduce the tension, Blazes beginning with a rough ballad of street violence, accompanied by violin and banjo. Sandy's song, with cello and out-of-tune upright piano, is a thinly disguised description of sexual bliss, and Arthur's with brass and clarinet, is a tub-thumping hymn. But the songs serve only to resurrect in their minds ghosts from the past, and as the fog descends each of the keepers becomes convinced that he is being claimed by the Beast. They prepare to meet its dazzling eyes, which become the lights of the relief vessel, and the three men reappear as officers, met at the lighthouse only by an infestation of rats. They leave, and at the end the last hours of Blazes, Sandy and Arthur begin to play over again. Study Score. Duration c. 1h 25mins.
SKU: GI.G-CD-1026
With a title inspired by the architecture and writings of Louis I. Kahn, this stunning recording is, according to conductor James Jordan, “really about pieces that are varying musical angles of refracted human light through sound.†States Jordan: “This recording project was a deeply emotional journey for me, the same can be said for the choir. The repertoire selections are from my personal musical journey, reflecting works that cast light into me for one reason or another.†The repertoire and performances on this emotionally arresting recording are varied, inspiring, and certain to bring more light into the world.
SKU: HL.394562
UPC: 196288032908. 6.75x10.5x0.036 inches.
Given everything our communities, choir, and world have experienced recently, we could all use a bit of light. This high energy, uplifting piece encourages us to tend to our hearts and to others, remembering that each of us has the power to bring light into our own lives-and into the lives of others. Featuring a supportive, rhythmic piano accompaniment and accessible vocal lines, this piece will have singers and audiences movin' and groovin'.
SKU: CF.CPS244
ISBN 9781491157985. UPC: 680160916580. 9 x 12 inches.
On Wings of Flight is a jubilant, short overture that is meant to convey the wonder of soaring high above the ground. Programmatically, it can represent either the flight of birds or aircraft. Donat be concerned if you donat have some of the lower voice color instruments such as bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, and/or bassoon. Those instruments are doubled in the low brass. Bass trombone isnat essential as it doubles tuba, but a lack or scarcity of bass trombone and/or tuba isnat critical if you do have those other low woodwinds. The repetitive eighth-note accents should be lighter than normal so the ongoing effect is more propulsive than heavy. Keep those eighth-note patterns locked into the tempo so the band refrains from unwittingly accelerating. Think of the legato accented notes as slightly separated as opposed to being slurred. When the accented whole notes surrounded by rests are played, be sure they are held out for a full four counts. Save the crescendo for m. 19 and quickly drop back down in volume at m. 21. At m. 31, the whole notes do not crescendo to the same ff volume as the melody. Those parts are to save their crescendo for m. 35. Pay attention to the instruments that do not diminuendo at m. 39. In the slower section after m. 41, be careful that the diminuendos on the half notes donat sag in pitch as the notes get softer. Trumpets and horns at m. 49 must not play their notes as accents. Give particular attention to the diminuendos in the melody at m. 56, so that they fade out as the volume of the other instruments grows. The accented notes at mm. 85 and 86 should each be heard through the volume of the rest of the instruments, so that the addition of each pitch is adequately heard. If you wish, you may place more emphasis on the accents in the last two measures of the piece than you did earlier throughout the piece.On Wings of Flight is a jubilant, short overture that is meant to convey the wonder of soaring high above the ground. Programmatically, it can represent either the flight of birds or aircraft. Don't be concerned if you don't have some of the lower voice color instruments such as bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, and/or bassoon. Those instruments are doubled in the low brass. Bass trombone isn't essential as it doubles tuba, but a lack or scarcity of bass trombone and/or tuba isn't critical if you do have those other low woodwinds. The repetitive eighth-note accents should be lighter than normal so the ongoing effect is more propulsive than heavy. Keep those eighth-note patterns locked into the tempo so the band refrains from unwittingly accelerating. Think of the legato accented notes as slightly separated as opposed to being slurred. When the accented whole notes surrounded by rests are played, be sure they are held out for a full four counts. Save the crescendo for m. 19 and quickly drop back down in volume at m. 21. At m. 31, the whole notes do not crescendo to the same ff volume as the melody. Those parts are to save their crescendo for m. 35. Pay attention to the instruments that do not diminuendo at m. 39. In the slower section after m. 41, be careful that the diminuendos on the half notes don't sag in pitch as the notes get softer. Trumpets and horns at m. 49 must not play their notes as accents. Give particular attention to the diminuendos in the melody at m. 56, so that they fade out as the volume of the other instruments grows. The accented notes at mm. 85 and 86 should each be heard through the volume of the rest of the instruments, so that the addition of each pitch is adequately heard. If you wish, you may place more emphasis on the accents in the last two measures of the piece than you did earlier throughout the piece.On Wings of Flight is a jubilant, short overture that is meant to convey the wonder of soaring high above the ground. Programmatically, it can represent either the flight of birds or aircraft.Don’t be concerned if you don’t have some of the lower voice color instruments such as bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, and/or bassoon. Those instruments are doubled in the low brass. Bass trombone isn’t essential as it doubles tuba, but a lack or scarcity of bass trombone and/or tuba isn’t critical if you do have those other low woodwinds.The repetitive eighth-note accents should be lighter than normal so the ongoing effect is more propulsive than heavy. Keep those eighth-note patterns locked into the tempo so the band refrains from unwittingly accelerating. Think of the legato accented notes as slightly separated as opposed to being slurred.When the accented whole notes surrounded by rests are played, be sure they are held out for a full four counts. Save the crescendo for m. 19 and quickly drop back down in volume at m. 21. At m. 31, the whole notes do not crescendo to the same ff volume as the melody. Those parts are to save their crescendo for m. 35. Pay attention to the instruments that do not diminuendo at m. 39.In the slower section after m. 41, be careful that the diminuendos on the half notes don’t sag in pitch as the notes get softer. Trumpets and horns at m. 49 must not play their notes as accents. Give particular attention to the diminuendos in the melody at m. 56, so that they fade out as the volume of the other instruments grows.The accented notes at mm. 85 and 86 should each be heard through the volume of the rest of the instruments, so that the addition of each pitch is adequately heard. If you wish, you may place more emphasis on the accents in the last two measures of the piece than you did earlier throughout the piece.
SKU: CF.CPS244F
ISBN 9781491157992. UPC: 680160916597. 9 x 12 inches.
SKU: GI.G-8880
UPC: 785147888000. English. Text Source: 1 Peter 2:4–10, NRSV, alt. Scripture: 1 Peter 2:4–10.
With a text that calls us to stand with our church community, “Out of Darkness into Light†is a gratifying anthem that your choir will sing with conviction. The elegant and attentive writing for organ supports the piece, while bringing unique colors to the setting.
SKU: HL.287341
UPC: 888680903763. 5.0x5.0x0.15 inches. John Jacobson/Mac Huff.
Beginning with a slow Gospel Swing groove and then transitioning into an upbeat Broadway 2-beat, this is a text with an inspirational message. Hand claps and foot stomps help to engage the singers and contrasting musical styles offer excellent teaching opportunities.
SKU: HL.35031548
UPC: 888680673819. 5.0x5.0x0.139 inches. 1 Peter 1:9, Matthew 4:16, Psalm 119:130.
This brief benediction glows with gentle joy and hope. Easily learned, the winsome melody rises like a prayer before settling into a richly rewarding amen. Either as a service closer or a meaningful tag to a holiday concert, this expressive offering is a message worth singing. Evocative! Score and Parts (fl 1-2, ob, cl 1-2, bn, hn 1-2, perc 1-2, hp, pno, vn 1-2, va, vc, db) available as a digital download.
SKU: HL.345531
UPC: 840126919684. 5.0x5.0x0.15 inches.
Frozen composers Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez were challenged to expand and deepen the themes explored through song in the 2019 Disney animated sequel, Frozen II. With a more mature, genre-blending mix of folk, rock and Broadway tunes, these six brand new songs run the gamut of emotions, further enchanting listeners with the continuing adventures of two sisters from Arendelle! Includes: All Is Found, Into the Unknown, Lost in the Woods, Show Yourself, Some Things Never Change and When I Am Older.
SKU: HL.4006500
UPC: 840126908893. 9.0x12.0x0.056 inches.
The highly anticipated follow-up to the original Frozen movie features an equally powerful collection of songs. This marvelous concert setting includes the haunting Vuelie chant melody along with the songs All Is Found, Some Things Never Change, Into the Unknown, Lost in the Woods, and Show Yourself.
SKU: HL.14043054
ISBN 9781780385273. English.
This sheet music songbook includes ten pieces taken from the official soundtrack to the French cinema sensation Intouchables.This fantastic songbook includes five Piano pieces by Ludovico Einaudi, andsongs by Terry Callier, George Benson and Nina Simone arranged for piano, guitar and vocals with full lyrics and guitar chord boxes.
SKU: HL.49046544
ISBN 9781705122655. UPC: 842819108726. 9.0x12.0x0.224 inches.
I composed the Piano Concerto in two stages: the first three movements during the years 1985-86, the next two in 1987, the final autograph of the last movement was ready by January, 1988. The concerto is dedicated to the American conductor Mario di Bonaventura. The markings of the movements are the following: 1. Vivace molto ritmico e preciso 2. Lento e deserto 3. Vivace cantabile 4. Allegro risoluto 5. Presto luminoso.The first performance of the three-movement Concerto was on October 23rd, 1986 in Graz. Mario di Bonaventura conducted while his brother, Anthony di Bonaventura, was the soloist. Two days later the performance was repeated in the Vienna Konzerthaus. After hearing the work twice, I came to the conclusion that the third movement is not an adequate finale; my feeling of form demanded continuation, a supplement. That led to the composing of the next two movements. The premiere of the whole cycle took place on February 29th, 1988, in the Vienna Konzerthaus with the same conductor and the same pianist. The orchestra consisted of the following: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, tenor trombone, percussion and strings. The flautist also plays the piccoIo, the clarinetist, the alto ocarina. The percussion is made up of diverse instruments, which one musician-virtuoso can play. It is more practical, however, if two or three musicians share the instruments. Besides traditional instruments the percussion part calls also for two simple wind instruments: the swanee whistle and the harmonica. The string instrument parts (two violins, viola, cello and doubles bass) can be performed soloistic since they do not contain divisi. For balance, however, the ensemble playing is recommended, for example 6-8 first violins, 6-8 second, 4-6 violas, 4-6 cellos, 3-4 double basses. In the Piano Concerto I realized new concepts of harmony and rhythm. The first movement is entirely written in bimetry: simultaneously 12/8 and 4/4 (8/8). This relates to the known triplet on a doule relation and in itself is nothing new. Because, however, I articulate 12 triola and 8 duola pulses, an entangled, up till now unheard kind of polymetry is created. The rhythm is additionally complicated because of asymmetric groupings inside two speed layers, which means accents are asymmetrically distributed. These groups, as in the talea technique, have a fixed, continuously repeating rhythmic structures of varying lengths in speed layers of 12/8 and 4/4. This means that the repeating pattern in the 12/8 level and the pattern in the 4/4 level do not coincide and continuously give a kaleidoscope of renewing combinations. In our perception we quickly resign from following particular rhythmical successions and that what is going on in time appears for us as something static, resting. This music, if it is played properly, in the right tempo and with the right accents inside particular layers, after a certain time 'rises, as it were, as a plane after taking off: the rhythmic action, too complex to be able to follow in detail, begins flying. This diffusion of individual structures into a different global structure is one of my basic compositional concepts: from the end of the fifties, from the orchestral works Apparitions and Atmospheres I continuously have been looking for new ways of resolving this basic question. The harmony of the first movement is based on mixtures, hence on the parallel leading of voices. This technique is used here in a rather simple form; later in the fourth movement it will be considerably developed. The second movement (the only slow one amongst five movements) also has a talea type of structure, it is however much simpler rhythmically, because it contains only one speed layer. The melody is consisted in the development of a rigorous interval mode in which two minor seconds and one major second alternate therefore nine notes inside an octave. This mode is transposed into different degrees and it also determines the harmony of the movement; however, in closing episode in the piano part there is a combination of diatonics (white keys) and pentatonics (black keys) led in brilliant, sparkling quasimixtures, while the orchestra continues to play in the nine tone mode. In this movement I used isolated sounds and extreme registers (piccolo in a very low register, bassoon in a very high register, canons played by the swanee whistle, the alto ocarina and brass with a harmon-mute' damper, cutting sound combinations of the piccolo, clarinet and oboe in an extremely high register, also alternating of a whistle-siren and xylophone). The third movement also has one speed layer and because of this it appears as simpler than the first, but actually the rhythm is very complicated in a different way here. Above the uninterrupted, fast and regular basic pulse, thanks to the asymmetric distribution of accents, different types of hemiolas and inherent melodical patterns appear (the term was coined by Gerhard Kubik in relation to central African music). If this movement is played with the adequate speed and with very clear accentuation, illusory rhythmic-melodical figures appear. These figures are not played directly; they do not appear in the score, but exist only in our perception as a result of co-operation of different voices. Already earlier I had experimented with illusory rhythmics, namely in Poeme symphonique for 100 metronomes (1962), in Continuum for harpsichord (1968), in Monument for two pianos (1976), and especially in the first and sixth piano etude Desordre and Automne a Varsovie (1985). The third movement of the Piano Concerto is up to now the clearest example of illusory rhythmics and illusory melody. In intervallic and chordal structure this movement is based on alternation, and also inter-relation of various modal and quasi-equidistant harmony spaces. The tempered twelve-part division of the octave allows for diatonical and other modal interval successions, which are not equidistant, but are based on the alternation of major and minor seconds in different groups. The tempered system also allows for the use of the anhemitonic pentatonic scale (the black keys of the piano). From equidistant scales, therefore interval formations which are based on the division of an octave in equal distances, the twelve-tone tempered system allows only chromatics (only minor seconds) and the six-tone scale (the whole-tone: only major seconds). Moreover, the division of the octave into four parts only minor thirds) and three parts (three major thirds) is possible. In several music cultures different equidistant divisions of an octave are accepted, for example, in the Javanese slendro into five parts, in Melanesia into seven parts, popular also in southeastern Asia, and apart from this, in southern Africa. This does not mean an exact equidistance: there is a certain tolerance for the inaccurateness of the interval tuning. These exotic for us, Europeans, harmony and melody have attracted me for several years. However I did not want to re-tune the piano (microtone deviations appear in the concerto only in a few places in the horn and trombone parts led in natural tones). After the period of experimenting, I got to pseudo- or quasiequidistant intervals, which is neither whole-tone nor chromatic: in the twelve-tone system, two whole-tone scales are possible, shifted a minor second apart from each other. Therefore, I connect these two scales (or sound resources), and for example, places occur where the melodies and figurations in the piano part are created from both whole tone scales; in one band one six-tone sound resource is utilized, and in the other hand, the complementary. In this way whole-tonality and chromaticism mutually reduce themselves: a type of deformed equidistancism is formed, strangely brilliant and at the same time slanting; illusory harmony, indeed being created inside the tempered twelve-tone system, but in sound quality not belonging to it anymore. The appearance of such slantedequidistant harmony fields alternating with modal fields and based on chords built on fifths (mainly in the piano part), complemented with mixtures built on fifths in the orchestra, gives this movement an individual, soft-metallic colour (a metallic sound resulting from harmonics). The fourth movement was meant to be the central movement of the Concerto. Its melodc-rhythmic elements (embryos or fragments of motives) in themselves are simple. The movement also begins simply, with a succession of overlapping of these elements in the mixture type structures. Also here a kaleidoscope is created, due to a limited number of these elements - of these pebbles in the kaleidoscope - which continuously return in augmentations and diminutions. Step by step, however, so that in the beginning we cannot hear it, a compiled rhythmic organization of the talea type gradually comes into daylight, based on the simultaneity of two mutually shifted to each other speed layers (also triplet and duoles, however, with different asymmetric structures than in the first movement). While longer rests are gradually filled in with motive fragments, we slowly come to the conclusion that we have found ourselves inside a rhythmic-melodical whirl: without change in tempo, only through increasing the density of the musical events, a rotation is created in the stream of successive and compiled, augmented and diminished motive fragments, and increasing the density suggests acceleration. Thanks to the periodical structure of the composition, always new but however of the same (all the motivic cells are similar to earlier ones but none of them are exactly repeated; the general structure is therefore self-similar), an impression is created of a gigantic, indissoluble network. Also, rhythmic structures at first hidden gradually begin to emerge, two independent speed layers with their various internal accentuations. This great, self-similar whirl in a very indirect way relates to musical associations, which came to my mind while watching the graphic projection of the mathematical sets of Julia and of Mandelbrot made with the help of a computer. I saw these wonderful pictures of fractal creations, made by scientists from Brema, Peitgen and Richter, for the first time in 1984. From that time they have played a great role in my musical concepts. This does not mean, however, that composing the fourth movement I used mathematical methods or iterative calculus; indeed, I did use constructions which, however, are not based on mathematical thinking, but are rather craftman's constructions (in this respect, my attitude towards mathematics is similar to that of the graphic artist Maurits Escher). I am concerned rather with intuitional, poetic, synesthetic correspondence, not on the scientific, but on the poetic level of thinking. The fifth, very short Presto movement is harmonically very simple, but all the more complicated in its rhythmic structure: it is based on the further development of ''inherent patterns of the third movement. The quasi-equidistance system dominates harmonically and melodically in this movement, as in the third, alternating with harmonic fields, which are based on the division of the chromatic whole into diatonics and anhemitonic pentatonics. Polyrhythms and harmonic mixtures reach their greatest density, and at the same time this movement is strikingly light, enlightened with very bright colours: at first it seems chaotic, but after listening to it for a few times it is easy to grasp its content: many autonomous but self-similar figures which crossing themselves. I present my artistic credo in the Piano Concerto: I demonstrate my independence from criteria of the traditional avantgarde, as well as the fashionable postmodernism. Musical illusions which I consider to be also so important are not a goal in itself for me, but a foundation for my aesthetical attitude. I prefer musical forms which have a more object-like than processual character. Music as frozen time, as an object in imaginary space evoked by music in our imagination, as a creation which really develops in time, but in imagination it exists simultaneously in all its moments. The spell of time, the enduring its passing by, closing it in a moment of the present is my main intention as a composer. (Gyorgy Ligeti).
SKU: FJ.B1569S
English.
Droning whirly tubes, wind gusts, and other ominous sounds depict the eerie phenomenon known as ghost lights. Opening with a dark and menacing sound, the piece soon moves into a section fueled by adrenaline and intensity. As the ghost lights appear, optional flashlights add to the spectacle as floating orbs of light spontaneously appear, and then disappear. This is one piece you simply have to hear (and see) to believe!
About FJH Concert Band
Desig ned for high school groups and upper-level middle school groups. Independence is encouraged, but many lines are cross-cued. Usually includes an expanded percussion section. Grades 3 - 3.5
SKU: HL.1141413
UPC: 097855175052. 7.0x18.0x2.75 inches.
Built for streaming, the Logitech Litra Beam desktop key light with TrueSoft technology makes it easy to achieve professional lighting effects. Direct light where you want it for a cinematic look. Easily swap between lighting techniques to express different moods. Whether you're shooting a YouTube video, streaming on Twitch or just working from home, Litra Beam ensures you always look your best. Natural Skin Tones, Radiant Look Logitech's TrueSoft technology delivers balanced full-spectrum LED light with cinematic color accuracy for a natural, radiant look across all skin tones. The Ultimate Desktop Fit Litra Beam is packed with features that make it easier than ever t oachieve professional lighting effects in any space. Its slim, elegant design can snuggle up to your monitor and fit into your desktop in ways other lights can't. Built-in cable management in the base keeps your setup looking sleek. And three 1/4-20 thread fittings allow you to attach Litra Beam to its desktop stand in multiple ways to achieve your desired lighting setup. Safe for All-Day Streaming Litra Beam has cleared even the strictest testing guidelines to ensure safe all-day streaming. So, whether you're creating a new video for YouTube of kicking off a marathon streaming session, Litra Beam helps you stay comfortable and confident on-camera – all day long. Fine-Tune Your Look On Camera Litra Beam features 5 brightness and 5 color temperature settings (2700K-6500K) to dial in the look you want. Or, you can hold down the buttons for continuous, stepless adjustment. Quick Access to Your Favorite Settings Download Logitech's free G HUB desktop app and connect via USB or Bluetooth® to control brightness and color temperature, save presets, turn light on/off, and more right from your desktop. And, if you have a Logitech G keyboard or mouse, you can use G-Keys to easily turn your light on/off, change brightness and color temperature, and more. Logitech TrueSoft Technology TrueSoft was designed to solve common challenges for today's content creator including quality of light, harsh shadows, and eye fatigue from long hours of streaming. Litra Beam was purpose-built for streaming and uses TrueSoft technology to wrap the subject in soft and diffused, accurate LED light that is gentle on the eyes for all-day professional content creation.
SKU: HL.49045598
ISBN 9790001165709. 0.196 inches.
Musicians onstage stand in the limelight and enjoy their fame whereas after performance they become shrouded in a strange fog of isolation. Light is associated with ascent and descent: it can lead into brightness, but equally into darkness. Light can illuminate and yet bedazzling; fog stands for insecurity, uncertainty and anxiety ... but also for mysticism and wafting dreams. Somehow time stands still...
SKU: PR.31241902S
UPC: 680160690589. English.
Commission ed by the San Francisco Choral Society and the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir, Terra Nostra is a 70-minute oratorio on the relationship between our planet and humankind, how this relationship has shifted over time, and how we can re-establish a harmonious balance. Part I: Creation of the World explores various creation myths from different cultures, culminating in a joyous celebration of the beauty of our planet. Part II: The Rise of Humanity examines human achievements, particularly since the dawn of our Industrial Age, and how these achievements have impacted the planet. Part III: Searching for Balance questions how to create more awareness for our planet’s plight, re-establish a deeper connection to it, and find a balance for living within our planet’s resources. In addition to the complete oratorio, stand-alone movements for mixed chorus, and for solo voice with piano, are also available separately.Terra Nostra focuses on the relationship between our planet and mankind, how this relationship has shifted over time, and how we can re-establish a harmonious balance. The oratorio is divided into three parts:Part I: Creation of the World celebrates the birth and beauty of our planet. The oratorio begins with creation myths from India, North America, and Egypt that are integrated into the opening lines of Genesis from the Old Testament. The music surges forth from these creation stories into “God’s World†by Edna St. Vincent Millay, which describes the world in exuberant and vivid detail. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s “On thine own child†praises Mother Earth for her role bringing forth all life, while Walt Whitman sings a love song to the planet in “Smile O voluptuous cool-breathed earth!†Part I ends with “A Blade of Grass†in which Whitman muses how our planet has been spinning in the heavens for a very long time.Part II: The Rise of Humanity examines the achievements of mankind, particularly since the dawn of the Industrial Age. Lord Alfred Tennyson’s “Locksley Hall†sets an auspicious tone that mankind is on the verge of great discoveries. This is followed in short order by Charles Mackay’s “Railways 1846,†William Ernest Henley’s “A Song of Speed,†and John Gillespie Magee, Jr.’s “High Flight,†each of which celebrates a new milestone in technological achievement. In “Binsey Poplars,†Gerard Manley Hopkins takes note of the effect that these advances are having on the planet, with trees being brought down and landscapes forever changed. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s “A Dirge†concludes Part II with a warning that the planet is beginning to sound a grave alarm.Part III: Searching for Balance questions how we can create more awareness for our planet’s plight, re-establish a deeper connection to it, and find a balance for living within our planet’s resources. Three texts continue the earth’s plea that ended the previous section: Lord Byron’s “Darkness†speaks of a natural disaster (a volcano) that has blotted out the sun from humanity and the panic that ensues; contemporary poet Esther Iverem’s “Earth Screaming†gives voice to the modern issues of our changing climate; and William Wordsworth’s “The World Is Too Much With Us†warns us that we are almost out of time to change our course. Contemporary/agrarian poet Wendell Berry’s “The Want of Peace†speaks to us at the climax of the oratorio, reminding us that we can find harmony with the planet if we choose to live more simply, and to recall that we ourselves came from the earth. Two Walt Whitman texts (“A Child said, What is the grass?†and “There was a child went forth every dayâ€) echo Berry’s thoughts, reminding us that we are of the earth, as is everything that we see on our planet. The oratorio concludes with a reprise of Whitman’s “A Blade of Grass†from Part I, this time interspersed with an additional Whitman text that sublimely states, “I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love…â€My hope in writing this oratorio is to invite audience members to consider how we interact with our planet, and what we can each personally do to keep the planet going for future generations. We are the only stewards Earth has; what can we each do to leave her in better shape than we found her?
