Alone the Sun Arises

The majesty of the sun and stars can be heard in the soaring brass melodies while the fast paced rhythms in the winds and percussion give this piece the excitement students will love.

Program Notes

The solemn peaks but to the stars are known
But to the stars and the cold lunar beams.
Alone the sun arises,
and alone spring the great streams."

- Matthew Arnold, In Utrumque Paratus

In Utrumque Paratus, i.e. "Prepared for either," is a poem by Matthew Arnold (1822-1888). This particular verse of that poem grabbed me and wouldn't let go. A special thanks to the Southeast Polk High School Wind Ensemble and their director, Mr. Randy Hoepker, for giving me the opportunity to compose this work for them.

- Reber Clark

Grade Level: 3
Copyright: 2002
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 6:45

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDF

Instrumentation

Piccolo/Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
Clarinet 1
Clarinet 2/3
Bass Clarinet
Eb Contralto Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Bb Trumpet 1
Bb Trumpet 2
Bb Trumpet 3
F Horn 1
F Horn 2
F Horn 3
Trombone 1
Trombone 2/3
Baritone
Tuba

Timpani (4 drums)
Percussion 1 (triangle, snare drum, bass drum, tambourine)
Percussion 2 (crash cymbals, suspended cymbal, gong, shaker)
Percussion 3 (bells, vibraphone)
Percussion 4 (chimes)
Percussion 5 (xylophone, shaker)