The River's Crossing

Written for the Cypress Symphonic Band in memory of Elizabeth Ann McWilliams, who passed away in February 2014, this piece is a celebration of her life. Beginning with a beautiful euphonium solo, the brass picks up the goodbye theme in the form of two simple parallel chords. A lilting children's dance follows, expressing Elizabeth's love of and work with children. After a fanfare signifying acceptance, there is a reprise of the children's dance as they lead her on her ascension to the final goodbye from above. The goodbye motif is repeated somberly by those left behind, and we return to our daily lives left with only the memory of our friend.