Awakenings

Based on the octatonic collection, Awakenings is a glorious work utilizes a tonal system not usually found in young band repertoire. The appeal of an octatonic collection lies in its unusual combination of available sonorities. Broad and grandiose throughout, this selection is truly an awakening.

Program Notes

Awakenings was commissioned by the Proposed International Center of New Music at Central Michigan University. Directed by David Gillingham and Nico Schuler, the ICNM is dedicated to the creation, performance, and research of new music in piblic schools, private schools and universities.

In keeping with ICNM's mission, Awakenings exploits a 20th century tonal system not commonly found in the repertoire for younger bands: the octatonic collection. Also known as a "diminished" scale, it is a series of alternating whole and half steps. totaling eight pitches. Common in the music of Bartok, Stravinsky, , and Messiaen, as well as in jazz improvisation and film scores (including Danny Elfman), the appeal of an octatonic collection lies in its unusual combination of available sonorities.

- Kimberly K. Archer

Grade Level: 3
Copyright: 2003
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 5:10
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Concert Band

Listen to Recordings

Instrumentation

Piccolo
Flute 1/2
Oboe 1/2
Bassoon
Bb Clarinet 1
Bb Clarinet 2/3
Bb Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Bb Trumpet 1
Bb Trumpet 2
Bb Trumpet 3
F Horn 1
F Horn 2
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Euphonium
Tuba

Timpani
Percussion 1 (marimba, chimes, bass drum, triangle)
Percussion 2 (tam-tam, crash cymbals, suspended cymbal, snare drum)