Composer’s Notes

Concert Band, Grade 3.5

Duration: 8:30

Wild Maine is a three-movement suite inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, and untamable natural beauty of the state of Maine.

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While the entire work may be performed as a suite, each movement also works as a standalone piece.

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Movement I - Voices of the Forest - 2:15

Downy Woodpeckers, Black-Capped Chickadees, Eastern Phoebes, even the ambience of the pine trees themselves–all surround us as we walk through the forest. The sounds appear hesitant at first, but as we step further into the wilderness (and perhaps take a moment to clear our minds), the voices of the forest become clearer–winding and dancing around each other, and forming a unique and beautiful song.

Movement II - The Secret of the Sea - 2:45

Antiphonal ocean waves set the tone while the winds and percussion ebb and flow with the tides. Inspired by the Longfellow poem of the same title–

“The Secret of the Sea” (Verse 1)

Ah! what pleasant visions haunt me

As I gaze upon the sea!

All the old romantic legends,

All my dreams, come back to me. 

–Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Movement III - Legends of Katahdin - 3:30

Katahdin, the tallest summit in Maine, is not for the faint of heart. It’s known to be both a challenging and transformative hike, with numerous false summits and a history full of legends to ponder. 

An opening fanfare gradually becomes shrouded with mystery and doubt. The piece climbs on with a stormy percussion feature breaking out at its apex. After much reflection, the piece ends with a return of the honorable fanfare and an uplifting spirit. Katahdin is not to be conquered, but respected.

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Instrumentation

​Flute

Oboe

Bassoon

Clarinet 1, 2

Bass Clarinet

Alto Saxophone

Tenor Saxophone

Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet 1, 2

Horn

Trombone 1, 2

Euphonium

Tuba

Timpani

Percussion 1: Glockenspiel, Chimes, Ratchet

Percussion 2: Xylophone, Vibraphone

Percussion 3: Marimba, Mark Tree, Suspended Cymbal

Percussion 4: Temple Blocks (2), Ocean Drum, Chimes,

                       Snare Drum, Thundersheet

Percussion 5: Temple Blocks (2), Ocean Drum, Suspended Cymbal,

                       Bass Drum, Glockenspiel, Concert Toms (3)

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Wild Maine was premiered in April 2025 by both the Bowdoin College Concert Band under the direction of John P. Morneau, and the Osher School of Music Wind Ensemble (University of Southern Maine) under the direction of Dr. William Kinne.

$100 - PDF Set - Entire Suite 

$40 - PDF Set - Single Movement

$30 - 11x14" Printed Score (Entire Suite)

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(PDF Set includes a digital score and parts)

For music purchases and inquiries, please get in touch via the contact page.