A NEW HORIZON

Cait Nishimura Music · A NEW HORIZON - Cait Nishimura x OU New Horizons Band
  • Concert Band Grade 3
  • Duration: ~3:30 minutes
  • Commissioned and premiered by the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band, conducted by Christopher Baumgartner 
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A New Horizon is inspired by Oklahoma skies, the sense of belonging found in community bands, and the optimism in being open to beginning again. This work was commissioned by Christopher Baumgartner and the University of Oklahoma New Horizons Band in celebration of their 20th anniversary. The band is part of the New Horizons International Music Association, a network of community music ensembles for adults.

When Chris approached me about this project, we had a wonderful conversation about how to create a meaningful collaboration with his community band members. We agreed that it would make for a memorable experience if the musicians had the opportunity to interact with me throughout the creative process – not just once the piece was finished. I met with the band, heard them play, answered their questions about being a composer, and invited them to tell me what their band experiences meant to them so that I could create a special piece inspired by their stories. They sent me photos of their favourite local vistas so I could see what the horizon looked like from their perspective. I was able to incorporate these wonderful sources of inspirations, as well as a variation of the melody from “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” (from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, Oklahoma!) This experience helped me determine that I much prefer this highly collaborative approach to commissioned works, and I’m so grateful to have worked with this community.