Stephen Hill
"Before the mountains
were born..."
Wind Ensemble (Grade 4)
SARAHTIM Music Publishing
Chorale q=56, Toccata q=146 ca. 7:20
Full Score Video
Condensed Score Video
Printed Score (11x17) and Master Set of Printed Parts - $90 (Not Yet Released)
Printed Score (11x17) and Master Set of PDF Parts - $90 (Not Yet Released)
Additional Printed Score (11x17) - $30
Additional Printed Score (8.5x14) - $25
Program Notes
“Before the mountains were born…” is a two-movement work reflecting on two Old Testament passages.
1. Chorale - Psalm 90:2 “Before the mountains were born…”
Lyrical and Polytonal. The Chorale begins the work with gentleness and returns after the Toccata to conclude in triumph.
2. Toccata - Psalm 98:8 “Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains shout together for joy.”
The Toccata begins with a rhythmic timpani solo that remains upbeat and joyful as each section enters, culminating in a jubilant and rapturous tutti. The timpani solo returns and sets up the closing section. The brass section enters, joined with accompanying woodwind flourishes that build to a triumphant restatement of the Chorale.
Composed - 2020