Randall D. Standridge

Gazing into the sky, one may be overcome with the infinite possibilities of our worlds and, thus, ourselves. It is this sense of wonder and hope that has been captured in “Skygazer Fanfare.” This work for concert band uses syncopated rhythms, layered percussion, and a sense of forward motion to create an exciting soundscape for young musicians. Careful attention has been paid to range and scoring to create a work that is attainable by smaller ensembles while retaining a full sound for larger ensembles as well. (2:20)

In recent years, Oklahoma has seen a great increase in the development of wind energy. This development in sustainable energy sources and the winds that flow across the great state serve as the inspiration for this composition. The piece begins by depicting the great open spaces that stretch for miles across the Oklahoma landscape. Small gusts of wind (represented by scalar and arpeggiated passages in the mallets and woodwinds) dance across the landscape. The piece picks up pace as the wind races across the land, turning the turbines and charging towards the future. (5:30)