“Reflections”

Created for a indoor wind ensemble client in collaboration with Chicago-based composer and music educator, Ryan Adamsons. Features original music and arrangements of Michael Jackson’s “Man In the Mirror”.

The scope of my work for this project included creating the show mockups, performance backing track in a DAW, rehearsal tracks, percussion composition, and sound design.

Software:

• Apple Logic Pro

• Avid Sibelius

• Native Instruments Kontakt 7

Goals:

• Custom music arrangements to communicate show concept and pedagogical requirements of the ensemble.

• High fidelity backing tracks for performances

• Mockup creation of realistic rehearsal tracks to support student learning and practice.

Notes:

This is another collaboration with the gifted brass and woodwind arranger, Ryan Adamsons. This composition was performed as part of a competitive indoor winds ensemble in the Winter Guard International competitive circuit.

The show explores a range of styles, technique, and dynamic range. One of the challenges that the performers experience is that the venues, often gymnasiums, typically have acoustics that are less than ideal. This requires a backing track that provides a reliable and accessible source of pulse without feeling like a metronome was being played. Often this relied on the usage of rhythmic elements in the performance track from instruments not being performed live in the ensemble, such as piano, drumset, shakers, and more.