** PREMIERE **
From Casey Martin (Composer)
"The melody for Wayfarer’s Waltz came to me sometime in 2018 or 2019. The original idea was for solo instrument and piano and went through several permutations over the years, including brass quintet. In the end, I felt that the timbral color palette that could be achieved through a wind ensemble would be the best vessel for this idea. There is no specific programmatic narrative behind the piece - I knew it was a waltz and I wanted the title to have some sort of alliteration. Since the overall vibe of the piece is somewhat melancholic to me, I liked the idea of this being the music for a roaming wanderer, or wayfarer. For those who are familiar with the work of composer Joe Hisaishi (of Studio Ghibli fame), you might notice influence from his piece Merry-Go-Round of Life from the Hayao Miyazaki film Howl’s Moving Castle.
Wayfarer’s Waltz was written for Robert Herrings and the 2023-2024 Artie Henry Middle School Honors band. The piece is dedicated to Robert’s final year as head director of the Henry Middle School band program and the tremendous legacy of excellence that he leaves behind. Although at the time of writing this I have only been a part of the Henry band team for a relatively short handful of years, the impact that I have witnessed Robert make on his student’s lives, both as musicians and human beings, has become one of my biggest sources of inspiration as an educator. Thank you SO much, Robert! GO HAWKS!"
By Casey Martin
Conducted by Robert Herrings
Henry Middle School Honors Band
Spring Concert 2024
15 май 2024
