Onward

Year
Duration
Preview

Instrumentation

Program Notes

Grade
Medium

Media

Performance History

2025

Concert Band

3:00

2.5

We all love the story of success. We, as humans, thrive on the feeling of succeeding on what we put our minds to. However, what we are not often told about this journey is the inevitable setbacks that may come our way. These setbacks may come at unexpected times and could discourage us from meeting our goals. However, what defines our journey towards achievement is not the setback itself but how we respond. This piece tells the story of overcoming setbacks starting with triumphant and confident opening bars moving to a happy and flowing theme. The music then transitions to a slightly sad and dark middle section that longs for returning to light. A second theme reveals itself which is more bold than the first that soars with the feeling of overcoming dark times. One of my biggest reminders to myself is that sometimes we have to take one step backwards to take two steps forward. With this piece I wish to give everyone the reminder that in the face of setbacks, we must learn to progress ONWARD.

Woodwinds
Brass
Percussion

Flute 1,2

Oboe 1,2

Bb Clarinet 1,2,3

Bass Clarinet

Saxophones (AATB)

Bassoon 1,2

Bb Trumpet 1,2

F Horn 1,2

Trombone 1,2

Euphonium

Tuba

Glockenspiel

Marimba

Snare Drum

Bass Drum

Tambourine

Crash Cymbal

Suspended Cymbal

  • December 11th, 2025: To be premiered by Flat Rock Middle School Symphonic Band at Midfest hosted by The University of Georgia