Freedom Rising! David Shaffer

Freedom Rising was written in commemoration of the 150 anniversary of Quantrill's raid on the unsuspecting town of Lawrence, Kansas where the residents bravely fought to defend their town from the forces of pro-slavery western counties. Opening with a dark and haunting woodwind choir, the composition quickly journeys into the raging battle that took place that fateful August day in 1863. The slower middle section is a powerful hymn expressing the hope of all townspeople for a successful defense to this sneak-attack. The dramatic powerful conclusion leaves us with the knowledge that this community fought desperately for the freedom of all people. A powerful piece that brings to life this brief but important period in American history.