Inspiration! - Festive Overture (2023, trans. 2025)
for band
Transcribed by Robert Schwartz and Philip Rothman
Composed 2022 - January 2023, transcribed 2025
7 Minutes
Instrumentation: 2 flutes, 2 oboes, E-flat clarinet (soprano saxophone part provided), 3 clarinets, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, 3 trumpets, 4 horns, 3 trombones, 2 euphoniums (baritone parts provided), tubas, string bass, timpani, 2 percussion
Percussion 1: Crash/Suspended Cymbal, Triangle
Percussion 2: Bass Drum
World Premiere of band version:
Southeastern Louisiana University Wind Symphony; Dr. Robert Schwartz conducting - September 25, 2025
This is a piece that is dedicated to the power of inspiration, and the will to inspire. The composition begins with a flourish—much like the spark of an idea—and erupts into joyous interplay from all sections of the orchestra. The middle section is more of a reflection of the first section, soulful and profound in nature and the rest of the piece is in high spirits, inspired by that which came before it.
This composition was commissioned by the University of Texas at Arlington Symphony Orchestra and their music director, Dr. Clifton Evans; it is also graciously dedicated to them. The wind ensemble version was kindly transcribed by Dr. Robert Schwartz of Southeastern Louisiana University, with edits from Philip Rothman.