
Starry Ocean
(2024)
- For 2 flutes, oboe, 2 Bb clarinets, bass clarinet, bassoon, 2 alto saxophones, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, 2 horns in F, 3 trumpets in Bb, 3 trombones, euphonium, tuba, 4 percussion.
- Duration: 6 minutes
- Grade level: 3+
- Commissioned by a consortium organized by CBDNA West/Northwest Regions (Bridgework Commission)
- Premiered at 2024 CBDNA W/NW Regional Conference in Las Vegas, NV
- Exclusivity for consortium members ended June 30, 2025; available to the public since July 1, 2025.
Starry Ocean is a musical journey that takes listeners deep into the depths of the ocean, capturing the alluring spectacle of marine life as it mirrors the mystical allure of a star-filled sky. The narrative in the music seeks to depict the enchanting undersea landscape that resembles Van Gogh's "Starry Night." The piece begins with a tranquil, serene depiction of the undersea world, gradually building in complexity as the marine life becomes more active and vibrant. The music reflects this flurry of activity within this undersea cosmos, creating a soundscape that is as intriguing as the bioluminescent creatures in the deep ocean.
Starry Ocean is a celebration of the beauty and mystery of our oceans, presented through the lens of a grade 3+ wind ensemble.