Where the Mountains Meet the Sky

Composer(s) / Arranger(s): Richard Hembree

Performance Time: 5:00  |  Grade: 3 1/2  |  Style: Contemporary

Where the Mountains Meet the Sky was commissioned by Jose Vargas for the Granite Ridge Intermediate Band in the spring of 2013. This piece is meant to pay tribute to the eighth grade class of that year, as they were nearing their promotion. I wanted to symbolize their journey not just going into high school, but also being one step closer to the limitless possibilities that lay ahead. As they approach the last foothills, they peer up into the mountains, and beyond them can see the sky.

The music begins with a somewhat bouncy moderato and has a bit of a Western influence. A simple catchy tune is introduced right away and tossed around, enduring slight alterations as it builds to a climax. The midsection features a flute and bassoon duet in a solemn B theme. Coming out of the midsection is a slow build and heavy acceleration, as though trudging along a particularly steep and sluggish path. As the tempo increases, however, the music becomes hopeful. The piece ends with a bright and climactic recap of the first theme.