Drawing inspiration from American poet Maya Angelou's inspirational poem “On the Pulse of Morning,” this unique work for band offers challenges and rewards for young players. Using the imagery of “a rock, a river, a tree,” Angelou challenges us all to work for unity and peace. The music ranges from an energetic percussive pulse (rock) that utilizes plastic buckets played throughout the ensemble, to a flowing chorale theme (river) that's heard near the beginning and again at the end. Throughout, the piece grows and intensifies (tree) as various musical elements are combined and varied. Dramatic music with important cross-curricular opportunities!

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