Nimbus Volare

"Nimbus Volare" was commissioned by flutist Dr. Brad Garner for performance with the West Texas A&M University Symphonic Band. The piece is a direct orchestration of the composer's three-movement flute sonata, condensed into an 8-minute concerto for flute and wind band. Orchestrating the flute sonata for the ensemble was a special treat for the composer, as wind band is an incredibly interesting group to write for. You find a wide variety of timbres that differ from writing for an orchestra. The piece is constructed in the style of a rhapsody, creating a soaring narrative by exploring contrasting sound worlds within its three major sections. The title was inspired by the sweeping atmosphere and contemplative nature of the opening and middle sections of the piece, followed by a fiery, barbaric finale; "Nimbus" symbolizing the free floating nature of a cloud and the vast nature of the sky, and "Volare" signifying flight and the element of total freedom.[Solo flute, Picc., 2 fl., 2 ob., 3 cl., bass cl., 2 bsn., 4 sax (aatb),3 trps (Bb), 4 hrns, 2 tromb, bass tromb, euph, tuba, timp., dbl bass, 3 perc.]