Product Overview
In the summer of 2025 parts of Texas were hit by devasting flash flooding. One area hit especially hard was Camp Mystic summer camp. In total 27 campers and camp counselors lost their lives.
I remember hearing or reading, when describing this tragedy, the phrase "27 empty beds". Immediately I knew I wanted to write a piece in memoriam of this loss.
The result became "Homage (27 Empty Beds)". Written for solo English Horn and Wind Band sans any percussion.
The piece is contemplative and rich in texture as the solo and band compliment each other. Alternating between the two. The change to a minor key about three quarters the way through emphasizes the tragedy. Toward the very end the song reverts back to its original key.
Written for a maturing high school band the ranges stay within reason. The solo part (which includes an alternate Alto Saxophone part) will challenge the player just enough to keep them working, but not by any stretch unattainable.
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