Reflections of a Wandering Mind

For Concert Band

Listen:

Program Notes

Reflections of a Wandering Mind began as a relaxation piece, intended to quiet the mind by evoking the gentle sounds and motion of ocean waves and light breezes. Shortly after I began writing, however, I learned that my beloved dog and longtime companion, Midgie, was becoming ill. The piece quickly took on a new meaning. What began as a simple musical meditation became Reflections of a Wandering Mind—a reflection on Midgie, the memories we shared, and the emotions that came with watching her grow older.

The piece opens with one of my favorite memories of her: Midgie lying peacefully in the sun in the backyard of the house where I grew up. She loved the warmth of the sunlight on her white-and-brown coat and always seemed completely content in those quiet moments.

As the music progresses, it moves into a more thoughtful and introspective state. Midgie was an incredibly observant dog, and there were many times when it seemed as though she was quietly taking in everything happening around her. Her moods were easy to read, and there was always a sense that there was much more going on behind those watchful eyes.

Gradually, the music becomes more emotional, reflecting the pain my family and I experienced as Midgie grew older and became sick. The work ultimately settles into a lullaby, accompanied by a poem that I wrote for her.

The piano plays a particularly important role throughout the piece, at times supporting the ensemble and at others taking the lead. That choice is deeply personal. Almost every time I sat down at the piano at home, Midgie would come sit behind me or curl up underneath the bench. It never seemed to matter what I played—she simply loved being there and listening. Often, she would eventually fall asleep to the sound of warm chords filling the room.

Dedication

To all who have lost a special pet and know how deeply they can become a part of our lives.

This piece is dedicated to my beloved Midgie, who passed away on April 5, 2008. You will always be remembered, loved, and dearly missed. You were my favorite cuddle buddy, my best listener, and one of the most loving and supportive members of our family.

Sweet dreams, baby girl.

Performance Notes

Mallets
– Mallets for both Marimba and vibraphone should be soft yarn mallets. Medium-soft may also be used if articulations do not come through for the vibraphone. The marimba is meant to be soft cords and is not meant to be heavily articulated.
– Bass drum and Suspended Cymbal should both be soft yarn mallets. These are only used for effects and need to blend in with the ensemble.

Keyboards
Both the piano and vibraphone should use heavy pedal throughout the piece. It is important that the sound doesn’t become “muddy”, but should have a lingering effect with each bar.

Poem
The poem included on the previous page (a readers copy is included in the parts set) is read during the “gently” section at measure 136 (notated in the score). The poem is broken up into two sections and should be read by either a musician or a guest speaker. Because this piece was written around that poem, it is highly recommended that it is used during this section.