Description
Duration 4:30 min
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Jack Raudys is a 17-year-old composer from Melbourne, Australia whose writing shows great maturity for someone so young in years. Jack uses the full range of ensemble sounds available in the wind ensemble and is able to use percussion skillfully to enhance the mood and energy of his works. This is his 3rd published work with us here at mattklohs.com and we are proud to continue our support of emerging Australian composers by helping bring their music to market for the enjoyment of musicians and audiences around the world. Jack is a composer whose potential in the future is unlimited and we are thrilled to be part of his journey.
Program Notes
The 4 core motifs:
The Launch Motif: Bright, brass fanfare
The Hero’s Motif: Dense saxophone harmony
The Excitement Motif: Punchy low brass
The Disappearance Motif: Chromatic and uneasy
Inspired by the likes of Gustav Holst, Igor Stravinsky and John Williams, Galactic Odyssey is a narrative told through music. Exhibiting a fusion of motivic writing, atmospheric textures and a healthy touch of dissonance, Galactic Odyssey takes the listener on a musical journey through the cosmos.
Movement 1 opens with the 'Launch Motif,' a bright fanfare signalling the anticipation of a rocket launch. Seamlessly transitioning to the 'Hero's Motif,' majestically performed by the saxophone section, this movement builds to a climax, marked by a triumphant chord that leads to the subsequent movement.
Movement 2 gains momentum, portraying the protagonist's crew embarking on their journey. Driving percussion and the 'Excitement Motif,' executed by the powerful low brass, amplify the sense of adventure, capturing the thrill and peril of space travel.
Movement 3 slows the pace, featuring the introspective 'Reflection Motif.' Executed by brass and saxophones, this chorale introduces a regal melody and dense harmonies, creating a contemplative atmosphere in the vastness of space.
Movement 4 begins with a polytonal chord in the muted brass, leading to the 'Disappearance Motif'. Accompanied by driving percussion and a minor variation of the 'Hero's Motif' in lower brass, this movement conveys the fear and uncertainty of cosmic exploration. It gradually builds to a dynamic climax before fading away, leaving a lingering echo.
Galactic Odyssey encapsulates the emotional spectrum of a space journey, from anticipation and excitement to introspection and, ultimately, a conclusion that is up for interpretation.
Instrumentation: Fl 1 2, Ob 1 2, Bsn, Bb Cl 1 2 3, Bs Cl, A Sx 1 2, T Sx, B Sx, F Hn 1 2 3 4, Tpt 1 2 3, Tbn 1 2, Bs Tbn, Euph (BC & TC), Tba, Dbl Bs, Tymp, Sn Dr, Bs Dr, Cym, Field Drum