Where the Waters Gather

Inspired by the Native American ideal to live in harmony with nature, Where the Waters Gather seeks to create greater understanding and respect of these people. Traditional Native American themes throughout add to the authenticity of this poignant tone poem for band.

Program Notes

Where the Waters Gather was commissioned by the Tomahawk (WI) High School band under the direction of Michael Madaj. Our goal was to create a greater understanding and respect between Native Americans and Americans of European ancestry through music.

It is a central theme in virtually all Native American cultures to live in harmony with nature. Water is viewed by many Native American nations as “the giver of life” and “the blood of their mother (earth).” In both cultures, water is used to cleanse and to grow food and other plants that are used for healing.

We hope that this work serves to create a better bond and shared understanding between these sovereign nations and cultures. Thankfully, we were able to work closely with many Native Americans and traditional Native American musicians throughout the creation of this work. Ultimately we hope that this work helps us all to realize that we are but one race—the human race.

- Charles Rochester Young

Grade Level: 3
Copyright: 2008
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 6:30
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Concert Band

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Instrumentation

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

Trumpet in Bb 1/2
Horn in F 1
Horn in F 2
Trombone 1/2
Euphonium
(Baritone T.C.)
Tuba

Timpani
Percussion 1 (Vibraphone)
Percussion 2 (Marimba, Floor Tom, Temple Blocks)
Percussion 3 (Bells, Bongos, Wood or Bamboo Wind Chimes, Finger Cymbals)
Percussion 4 (Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbal, Bell Tree)
Percussion 5 (Small Triangle, Tam-Tam, Snare Drum (snares off) Supplemental Percussion (optional)