Joyous Mundanity

This work for wind ensemble is inspired by the poetry of Ted Kooser and my interest in countering the perpetual onslaught of dopamine hits and stressors that have arisen due to our new dependency on phones, social media, and the sorts. Using two main themes as its vehicles, the piece explores a variety of textures and orchestrations which culminate in an exultant climax that attempts to sonically portray the realization that peace and beauty exist within the mundane and “boring” parts of life.

This work began as a project for a class centered around creativity research during my studies at the University of Florida. The early stages involved a sketch that I doodled (featured below) that was the initial “energy blueprint” for the work which, at the time, was largely based on Kooser’s “A Man with a Rake” from his collection of the same title. Rather quickly, the work became more than just an assignment for a class and deviated from the initial “blueprint”. The subject matter struck me at a pivotal period in my life—a time when I was living in Arcadia and learning to truly appreciate a rural community. I felt compelled to finish the work to be a representation of my newfound appreciation and interest in the quieter side of life.

It is quite easy to find oneself beguiled by the multitudes of media, advertisements, and technologies desperately vying for our attention. I hope this piece can act as a reminder for its listeners and performers to slow down and enjoy the mundane aspects that are often overlooked.