Sunrise

Early Native Americans recognized the cyclical contributions of nature and regarded the sun as an entity of the Great Spirit which guided them. These people worshiped the sun, relying on its energy for life and sustenance. It is no surprise many rituals revolved around that giant, orange ball in the sky. Recently, I had the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunrise atop a vortex bluff in Sedona, Arizona. It is impossible to describe the reverence and solitude felt as the light and color slowly met darkness, unveiling the beginning of a new day. The few participants who were present expanded the magnitude of the event as all sat in silence and meditation. Slowly the rays and warmth of the sun began to envelop the onlookers until the sun was fully present and a new day had begun. Young students learning to play an instrument will enjoy creating this moment with their friends in the band. An ascending theme followed by a climactic modulation represents the sun at its apex. The successive themes represent the rays of sun warming and nurturing the Earth. A few accidentals for some instruments will motivate students to learn more notes! Particularly exciting is the kaleidoscope effect of instruments entering and sustaining toward the end of the piece, representing the flood of light created by the sun. Careful consideration of limited instrumentation and teaching time for young bands will permit success of a final, inspired performance. Sunrise is Part 2 of a Native American Suite for Beginning Band.