Look Up
| YEAR: | 2025 |
| DURATION: | 8 minutes |
| CATEGORY: | Orchestra |
| INSTRUMENTATION: | 2.2.2.2 - 4.3.3 - Timpani - 3 perc - Strings) |
| PREMIERE: | October 11, 2025 Albany Symphony Conductor // David Alan Miller |
Program Note:
When thinking about a commemorative piece to open the Albany Symphony’s season, I thought of fireworks. Throughout the world, fireworks carry many symbolic meanings: In American culture, they represent freedom, celebration, independence, and patriotism. In China, where fireworks were invented, they symbolize renewal, prosperity, and good fortune. In Japan, they serve as a symbol of impermanence, fleeting bursts of light that are here one moment and gone the next. Fireworks are visible to everyone throughout the world, regardless of class, background, or belief. We can all Look Up and see them.
The shape of this work is inspired by the structure of a fireworks show. Each section is a musical depiction of a different type of firework. There is a chrysanthemum: a flower like pattern; comet: a fast shooting star with a long tail; crossette: a burst that splits into multiple smaller patterns; a strobe: fast blinking lights; and a willow: a large tree-like shape that slowly trails downwards. Each of these shapes are depicted in the piece.
Throughout the Albany Symphony’s season, they are paying tribute to the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the United States. The title Look Up also serves as a reminder. This fragile American project relies on us all to pay attention.
