Damien Geter

Essay for Orchestra

$90.00

Duration: 12'

Instrumentation: Orchestra
Performance Materials: Full Score
Delivery Method: Print

Essay for Orchestra, Damien Geter (2026) 12'

Essay for Orchestra, a piece commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, reflects the nation’s struggles and triumphs. The work begins with a winding chorale that serves as its emotional and musical foundation, returning and expanding at key moments of
tension and release throughout the piece. Woven into the score are tributes to two spirituals, “Wade in the Water” and “Calvary.” The latter is deliberately paired with “You’re a Grand Old Flag” to highlight the profound dichotomy that has always defined this nation: the pageantry of celebration set against the long, unfinished struggle for true freedom for all.

Commissioned by the Chautauqua Institution

Orchestral instrumentation: 3.2.2.2/4.3.3.1/timp.3 perc/hp/strings

Orchestral performance parts are available via rental.

Click here for a rental quote.

Shipping & Returns

Physical copies ship in 2-3 business days.
Digital copies delivered to customer email upon checkout.

Returns accepted for physical copies within 30 days of delivery.
Returns are not accepted for digital products.
JAT-112-040-FS
Instrumentation: Orchestra
Performance Materials: Full Score
Delivery Method: Print

About the Work

Duration: 12'

Instrumentation: Orchestra

Commissioned by: Commissioned by the Chautauqua Institution

Essay for Orchestra, a piece commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, reflects the nation’s struggles and triumphs. The work begins with a winding chorale that serves as its emotional and musical foundation, returning and expanding at key moments of tension and release throughout the piece. Woven into the score are tributes to two spirituals, “Wade in the Water” and “Calvary.” The latter is deliberately paired with “You’re a Grand Old Flag” to highlight the profound dichotomy that has always defined this nation: the pageantry of celebration set against the long, unfinished struggle for true freedom for all.