EMPIRE
Commissioned by the
PSI Chapter of Phi Beta Mu
International Bandmasters Fraternity.
Dedicated to the young musicians of Kentucky.
Premiered Saturday, February 11, 2006
by the Kentucky All-State Symphonic Band.
Ray Cramer, Conductor
PROGRAM NOTES:
This programmatic work depicts the building of the Roman Empire and in particular, Rome itself. It’s architecture, its political intrigue and the diverse social status of its people is reflected in this work with it’s overall tonality and ethnic flavors. In some sections, the percussion section represents Rome’s military strength. At other times, it represent the dancing and celebrations which in Rome, as with most everything else, were epic in proportion.
Throughout the composing process, I envisioned a country peasant going to Rome for the first time, seeing all the sights and even getting sucked into a party or two.
