A New Horizon

A New Horizon, Cait Nishimura (2021) 3'30"
for concert band

A New Horizon is inspired by Oklahoma skies, the sense of belonging found in community bands, and the optimism in being open to beginning again. This work was commissioned by Christopher Baumgartner and the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band in celebration of their 20th anniversary. The band is part of the New Horizons International Music Association, a network of community music ensembles for adults.

When Chris approached me about this project, we had a wonderful conversation about how to create a meaningful collaboration with his community band members. We agreed that it would make for a memorable experience if the musicians had the opportunity to interact with me throughout the creative process – not just once the piece was finished. I met with the band, heard them play, answered their questions about being a composer, and invited them to tell me what their band experiences meant to them so that I could create a special piece inspired by their stories. They sent me photos of their favourite local vistas so I could see what the horizon looked like from their perspective. I was able to incorporate these wonderful sources of inspirations, as well as a variation of the melody from “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” (from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, Oklahoma!) This experience helped me determine that I much prefer this highly collaborative approach to commissioned works, and I’m so grateful to have worked with this community.

Difficulty: Grade 3

Instrumentation: Flute 1-2, oboe, bassoon, clarinet 1-2, bass clarinet, alto saxophone 1-2, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet 1-2, horn 1-2, trombone 1-2, euphonium, tuba, piano, timpani, chimes, percussion 1-2 (glockenspiel, marimba, suspended cymbal, triangle, tom)

Note: Score and parts include two copies of all instrumental parts. Please contact our team if you would like to purchase additional copies.