Samuel R. Hazo

This poignant and moving work musically tells the tale of a chorus of angels (chorus angelorum) as they accompany two souls to the next world. Composed as a memorial piece, the music evolves from the initial “angels’ song,” their journey to heaven, and their return to comfort those who mourn. The voice parts (performed on a synthesizer or by real voices) add an ethereal quality to this wonderful work. Dur: 6:25 (Grade 3-1/2)

Audio recorded by the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Wind Ensemble – Jack Stamp, conductor

Samuel R. Hazo, guest conductor

Drums of the Saamis was commissioned by the Medicine Hat Concert Band Society of Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada. The piece chronicles the merger of the First Nation (first natives) and modern Albertan cultures. The opening tribal drums followed by the haunting melody simulating the traditional wooden flute comprise two themes that are the foundation for the entire piece. Both elements are developed, varied and enhanced throughout as the listener senses the increasing influence of modern day Alberta through the use of modern sounding chords and rhythms. By the end, the marriage of the old and the new is complete. This powerful work closes as it began; a restatement of themes representing the musical and historical foundation of the region. Dur: 5:00

A tour de force of exotic sounds and emotional design, this major work from Samuel Hazo will leave your audiences breathless. Based on the hauntingly beautiful Sunayama, this composition tells a story of the inner conflict of a Japanese girl who falls in love with an American. She is torn between a life with him in America and her longing for the culture of her childhood. From time to time she plays a music box given to her by her parents (Sunayama theme), bringing a flood of homeland memories. The composer weaves together a tapestry of sounds and moods as the piece builds to a fulfilling climax of musical drama and power. Dur: 5:30 (Includes Full Performance CD)