Program Notes:

The fall of 2022 in western NY state was one of the most stunningly beautiful seasons I’ve ever witnessed. As I composed this piece, I was inspired by the majesty of autumn – the vibrant golds and reds, the sunlight streaming through the trees, and leaves gently waving in the breeze. Through this time, I imagined the students for whom I composed this piece – students in the Appalachian region – and wondered if they, too, were experiencing this magnificence of nature.

This piece intends to capture the essence of autumn through a majestic melody in the low brass, rustling percussion, shimmering woodwind trills, and harmonic shifts that bring color to the entire ensemble.

Appalachian Majesty was commissioned by the 2022 Albemarle County Middle School Honor Band in Albemarle County, Virginia.