Mid-American Sketches

Ryan Nowlin

Grade 3

Concert Band Score and Parts

Composed in three movements, this work’s intention is to capture the spirit of an American community and celebrate the bringing community together. After reviewing a myriad of photographs of the community, its architecture, and its citizens, as well as several conversations with the director of the commissioning high school band, the composer was struck by a clear sense of the importance of family, of togetherness.  This sense of heritage and home is a hallmark of the Midwest and Middle-America and serves as the inspiration for all three movements of the work. “New Horizons” serves as a celebration not only of the new facility, but also as a tribute to the many people that have established their lives and started their families in Middleville. The second movement, “Home”, portrays a sense of pride, reverence, security, and affection. Whether home, away, or abroad, there is a common connection to middle America that is a constant source of warmth. The final movement, “Tomorrows”, embodies the spirit of the future, of new possibilities as well as a dance-like celebration of community.

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