Sacred Harp

Commissioned for the 2012 South Carolina All-State High School Band, Jay's impressive three-movement suite based on melodies from the early American “Sacred Harp” singing tradition is a masterwork of dramatic orchestrational devices. “Stratfield” opens with a striking statement by the saxes and double reeds, then builds intensity using woodwind flourishes and soaring brass lines. “Idumea” begins in a quiet and delicate manner then gives way to thundering percussion and striking harmonic effects. The joyous “Pisgah” has a barn dance quality that provides the perfect conclusion to this powerful work for winds.