In Praise of Heroes

Completed in mid-February 2021, In Praise of Heroes is scored for large brass, winds and percussion ensemble. It was composed after all the uncertainty, anxiousness, and discipline of our worldwide pandemic year specifically to honor and celebrate the selfless, constant work of “all front-line personnel who held fast to lead our nation through a dark, dark year”.

The music progresses as a build-up of conviction, shown in incremental growth of sheer instrumental authority and power. For 13 brass, 5 double reeds and 5 percussion, it’s primarily in 3/4 meter - with two step-aways - and cast in inexorable sarabande rhythm. (Judith Lang Zaimont)