Distant Horizon (Jazz Ens Gr. 4)

Distant Horizon is a jazz ballad reminiscent of traditional jazz harmony yet is mixed with a modern harmonic approach. This piece suggests to the listener the softness of an amber sunset, mixed with fresh and beautiful colors of sky and earth, promising an exciting, yet peaceful journey beyond what we can see. After the unexpected death of her husband, composer Melanie Shore was commissioned to write this piece for Farmington Jr. High's performance at the prestigious Midwest Clinic, 2018. The emotion of Distant Horizon is relative to missing a loved one; striving to see through the dimming twilight, exploring the depths of deep, reflective emotions, all while keeping the hope of a new day in sight.

Genre: Jazz Ensemble | # of Players: Standard
Level: 4 | Duration: 5:00

Instrumentation
Alto Sax 1
Alto Sax 2
Tenor Sax 1
Tenor Sax 2
Baritone Sax

Trumpet 1
Trumpet 2
Trumpet 3
Trumpet 4

Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Bass Trombone

Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drum Set

Program Notes
Distant Horizon is a jazz ballad that travels through familiar, but new territory. This piece was written by composer Melanie Shore after the unexpected death of her husband.

Distant Horizon begins with the promise of a beautiful morning, encircling the listener with soft, yet colorful hues. As the day begins, it starts out simple, reflected in the textures of the rhythm section and gradually opens up to a more dense sound as the rest of the instruments join in.

The middle of the day comes, and with it lies complexity mixed with familiarity. Natural rises and falls of emotions are expected, and the day goes on. As we enter the evening, the scenery changes. The territory has a different layout than the panorama of mid-day, and is navigated with a different approach. As the music explores this new terrain, so does one who is searching for clarity and peace during the tempestuous times that come with life.

As night approaches, so does the familiarity of the beginning of the day, signifying that though we will all travel through difficult situations, there will always be hope. The emotion of Distant Horizon is relative to missing a loved one; striving to see through the dimming twilight, exploring the depths of deep, reflective emotions, all while keeping the hope of a new day in sight.