Among the Clouds (c/b) Brian Balmages

This uplifting work transports the listener into a world of dreamers as they drift off to sleep to the peaceful sounds of bells, wind chimes and bell tones, only to wake to an intense full band sound in a world where they own the skies. This is fresh, contemporary writing, with an overall optimistic feel as the theme is developed effectively before the invigorating conclusion. This is an exciting, energetic piece, highly recommended for concert and contests!

Flying is a favorite activity of lucid dreamers, who are able to become aware that they are dreaming and then control their actions while inside the dream. Among the Clouds takes us into the minds of these dreamers as they drift off to sleep and wake up in a world where they own the skies. After a slow, enchanting opening conveys the sense of drifting off to sleep, the aggressive theme of the fast section begins the amazing flight. This theme develops in several ways before coming to an invigorating conclusion. Highly accessible and exciting for medium level bands!