The Traveler’s Loop |
for Bass Trombone and Wind Ensemble
for Solo Bass Trombone and Wind Ensemble
dur. ca. 18min
'The Traveler's Loop' centers on an image of a traveler who embarks on a journey around the world by train; however, the passenger is never allowed to leave the train. The ensemble begins the piece with a bleak introduction called ‘The Train’. The protagonist, the Solo Bass Trombone, is introduced in the first movement ‘Through the Cityscapes’. The soloist reacts to the everchanging world that that is seen, as represented by the wind ensemble. The soloist's character will track a clear emotional arc on its journey. In the first movement, The Soloist's is filled with excitement as they are passing a lively city. This excitement leaves as they come to the realization that they are not getting off the train.
The second movement ‘Viewing the World’ shifts focus from outward to inward as the soloist longs to be a part of the outside world. Changing textures in the wind ensemble evoke a sense of jealousy that evolves to longing and anger.
The third movement, ‘Tearing Metal’ deals with the culminating anger. The soloist is literally trying to smash the train open to be free. The piece accelerates into a dense chaotic texture, as the soloist weeps and yells for freedom. The trains continous to march forward with the passenger stuck on the endless train ride.