Steve Wiest

Don't Give Up Hope

Dedicated to the people of Japan. This programmatic work has four sections. 1. To represent the Earthquake of March 11, 2011; an introduction using a kumoi scale first as a solo flute section, then featuring all of the band as the energy builds. 2. A beautiful interlude representing everyday life in Japan utilizing the traditional Itsuki Lullaby. 3. A multichordal fantasy that reflects the building of the Tsunami wave followed by unusual chords in the brass that reflect the triple-disaster of nuclear radiation. 4. An ending section featuring a recomposed Itsuki melody in major. The piece ends in two keys at once in a hopeful gesture of healing along with sorrow. Lead trumpet goes up to a 2 ledger line space written high Eb. 5 saxes (doubles: flute, clarinet and bass clarinet), 10 brass, plus piano, bass, guitar, and drums. Medium Difficult.