Title of Music
FLIGHT: ADVENTURE IN THE SKY
Composer
BENJAMIN YEO
Duration
c.a. 6’50”
Key
Eb, F, G, D (and dorian-mode), Bb
Meter
3/4, 4/4, 5/8, 7/8
Programme Notes
“FLIGHT” is a programmatic piece of work that describes a young pilot’s adventure up in the air. Written in six short movements, his journey begins as he takes flight from the ground. The start of jet engine can be heard as the propellers spin and lift the plane into the sky for an exciting adventure. The inevitable turbulence destabilizes the jet as the young pilot fought for his balance. The challenge did not cease when it was compounded by the approaching storm that hindered not only his stability but also his vision. The struggle however was offset by the spectacular view aloft of the cascading mountain ranges after the storm. The breath-taking landscape left him a sense of reluctance to return as he faces the reality to land!
The piece explores some interesting use of unconventional instruments such as the whirlies or air-hose. Whirlies are flexible, corrugated rubber or plastic tubes/hoses with an average diameter of about 2.5cm to 5cm and a length of approximately 1m. These whirlies, to be located on the stage left, right and centre as indicated in the score, are held by one hand and twirled above the player’s head to produce a series of harmonics that will atmospherically create some kind of a wind-effect. It is also very effective visually to the audience, as it resembles the spinning of the propellers.
A “propeller” part is also written and the performers have the option of creating the propeller-effect manually using drum-skin and stick; or having the effect played using multimedia (audio-CD). The coordination of the effect is assisted by the 5 cues indicated in the score. It is hoped that the audience can enjoy the adventurous experience as the band brings them on an exciting journey up in the sky even they are just seated in the concert hall!
This piece is dedicated to and performed by the Music Talent Development Centre (MTDC) Concert Band for their Inaugural Concert 2010, conducted by Music Director, Mr. Brando Tan at the Esplanade Concert Hall, Singapore.
Listen to an audio recording by the Royal Band of the Belgian Guides:
