A Celebration!!! - Variations and Rhapsody for Orchestra 9’

 

A Celebration!!! was commissioned by my alma mater, Franklin & Marshall College, and premiered in its chamber ensemble version by the F&M Philharmonia on March 4, 2017. The piece is built on two core musical ideas—one melodic and the other rhythmic.

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It opens with a lyrical theme introduced by the solo bass clarinet, which undergoes a series of variations, eventually leading into a quasi-minimalistic passage of rhythmic modulation. At the culmination of this section, the main rhythmic motive is revealed—derived from the Morse code for “F” and “M,” a tribute to Franklin & Marshall College. The original melody then returns in full force, now fully integrated with the F&M rhythmic pattern, driving the music to a climactic peak before concluding with a jubilant and energetic flourish.