Music & Arts announces the kickoff of “Project Imagine,” a commissioned composition project aimed at providing underserved music programs the opportunity to perform high-quality pieces entirely free of charge. The program will consist of a series of compositions (classified as grade/difficulty level 2-3 out of 5) intended for middle school and high school ensembles. Each piece is accompanied by optional rehearsal suggestions / tips and social-emotional learning curricula, creating a comprehensive nine-week thematic instructional unit that will create a memorable experience for directors and their students.Scott Lang, Music & Arts Director of Advocacy, remarks, “For many young musicians, there is nothing like the excitement of beginning a new piece of repertoire. From a sometimes-clumsy first sightread, to careful notes from the director, to fixing mistakes and perfecting the piece for the performance stage, a new piece of music represents potential and accomplishment – and that is what we aim to encourage with Project Imagine.”
The first composition was released in September 2022 to wide acclaim, with 250 copies given to music educators across the country. Written by Kelijah Dunton, Color in the Grey is a gorgeous grade 2.5-3 band work, 3:20 in duration, accessible to middle school and high school ensembles. According to Dunton, “Color in the Grey is about embracing the creativity and the imagination within us.” School bands across the country will be performing Color in the Grey throughout the 2022-23 school year.
The second composition is currently under development. Written by Victor C. Johnson, the choral work Awake, My Soul! celebrates the joy of creation and the wonders of imagination. Featuring soaring vocal lines, cool, contemporary harmonies, and a driving piano accompaniment, this piece sizzles with festive energy. Choral directors can expect to request this piece later in 2022.
Brian Wilson, Music & Arts Vice President, School Services, remarks, “With Project Imagine, our goal is to give a special opportunity to programs that might not have the budget for acquiring new scores. Additionally, Project Imagine aims to provide a platform for composers who write with purpose and an inspirational spirit. We are excited to see and hear the fruits of the hard work of the programs who have been provided these new compositions.”
To learn more about Music & Arts, visit MusicArts.com.
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