MANATEE COVE (2018)
TUBA AND PIANO
(Approximate Duration | 8' 55’’)
MANATEE COVE is a work that explores the different characters of the tuba. Programmatic in nature, this piece was written to depict the majestic and soft natured mammal, the manatee. Friend and colleague, David Burnett commissioned this work and, as with all of my commissions, we collaborated very closely. Dave brought up the idea of including a programmatic element of the manatees and possibly a story. He also threw a curveball, inquiring if I could write a section with a somewhat tropical/calypso-esque feel. It was a fun and interesting experience exploring a unique style of writing.
The opening casts a serene landscape featuring lush and lyrical statements resembling that of a lullaby from the tuba soloist. One may hear the sound of buoy bells in the distance. However this peaceful scene does not last as one of the manatee's greatest threats approach. Watercraft are notorious for maiming and killing manatees. They are represented by a low tremelo in the piano, the boat comes closer and closer, the chase is on.
Although the calf was able to escape the boat, they have lost their aggregation and treads the waters alone and solemnly. The sun eventually returns, and the manatees lounge around in the Florida sun. Suddenly, the calf spots its group and they settle in for another night, grateful to be together again.
The opening casts a serene landscape featuring lush and lyrical statements resembling that of a lullaby from the tuba soloist. One may hear the sound of buoy bells in the distance. However this peaceful scene does not last as one of the manatee's greatest threats approach. Watercraft are notorious for maiming and killing manatees. They are represented by a low tremelo in the piano, the boat comes closer and closer, the chase is on.
Although the calf was able to escape the boat, they have lost their aggregation and treads the waters alone and solemnly. The sun eventually returns, and the manatees lounge around in the Florida sun. Suddenly, the calf spots its group and they settle in for another night, grateful to be together again.