APOAPSIS (2025) - for Tuba (or Euphonium) and Fixed Media
Apoapsis is defined as the point at which an orbiting object is farthest away from the body it is orbiting. APOAPSIS (2025) is an out-of-this-world consortium for tuba (or euphonium) and fixed media led by Dr. Patrick Yeh. The work is inspired by the visuals and immersiveness of the video game Star Citizen and the isolation, loneliness, serenity, and anxiety one would feel exploring a beautiful yet dangerous fictional galaxy all alone. APOAPSIS is through-composed and has transitions seamlessly between different musical chapters of the piece to emulate the smooth gameplay and lack of loading screens in Star Citizen. Each chapter of APOAPSIS is subtitled to convey the previously mentioned emotions and scenarios:
Chapter 1: To think among the stars: This first section explores the isolation and loneliness one would feel traveling alone through a barren galaxy. Chapter 1 begins with the explosion of a planet and quickly evolves into an ethereal shimmer of stars and light. A shifting three-note motive anchored by an initial B-flat is the foundation of this section, constantly fluctuating between moments of high intensity and relaxed tranquility.
Chapter 2: Fight for survival: The second chapter of APOAPSIS depicts an epic battle with space pirates via a high-energy melodic motive set on top of constant meter changes, driving synths, and pulsing drum pads.
Chapter 3: The Jump: This third section depicts the leap through space and time at hyper-speed, allowing for a successful escape from the space battle. Lyrical in nature, The Jump is reminiscent of a dreamy Waltz and conveys a sense of hope and optimism in the face of adversity.
Chapter 4: Destination Reached: The final chapter of APOAPSIS portrays the discovery of a new planet, one with abundant forms of life. Specifically, this section takes place in an extraterrestrial night club. Energetic groove-based melodies, bright synths, and thumping drums bring APOAPSIS to a celebratory close.
Consortium members:
Patrick Yeh (Lead Commissioner), Nick Beltchev, Michael D. Crawford, Nate Gay, Thomas Janssen, Logan Jungman, Jacob Norris, Keith Packman, Mark Sayler, International Tuba Euphonium Association
Duration: 8 minutes
Difficulty: 3.5/5
Format: PDF solo tuba & euphonium parts (B.C. and T.C.), WAV and MP3 files of the backing track
Copyright © 2025 Ian Lester