NIGHT GLOW (2023) for Wind Ensemble
NIGHT GLOW is a Grade 3 work for wind ensemble commissioned in the Fall of 2023 by Dr. Joe Parisi and the Roeland Park New Horizons Band. NIGHT GLOW takes inspiration from the idea of fusing together two separate songs that come from different holidays and religions: The classic Christmas carol “Silent Night” and the liturgical Jewish hymn “Ma'oz Tzur”. Both works are significant to their respective holiday and religion, and I felt that using “Silent Night” and “Ma'oz Tzur” in a wind ensemble setting could provide a meaningful and enjoyable piece for bands to perform, especially on holiday concerts. NIGHT GLOW begins with a gentle slow section, containing subtle references to “Silent Night”. The main thematic material passes from the woodwinds to the low brass, who along with timpani and bell-toning higher brass, gradually build in dynamics as more instruments continue to enter the texture. After a climactic fortissimo chord, a flowing tenor saxophone solo leads into a celebratory fast section containing references to “Ma'oz Tzur”. After a lyrical clarinet solo and a chorale-like trombone soli that begins to call back to “Silent Night”, the piece ends with a joyful finale that features sections and fragments of both “Silent Night” and “Ma'oz Tzur” being played simultaneously throughout the band.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 minutes
Difficulty: 3/5
Format: PDF Score and Parts
Copyright © 2023 Ian Lester (ASCAP)