Program Notes

​

Saddle-Up! is a work with a Western theme. The music was composed over the weekend of March 11-13, 2016. Looking through some pictures that I had near my desk, I came across a picture of my teacher, Francis McBeth holding his saddle. The photo led me to reflect on childhood memories of watching old Western movies. Roy Rogers, John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, etc. Westerns, such as The Cowboys, Rio Bravo, El Dorado, Big Jake, Chisholm, The Magnificent Seven, Silverado, Lonesome Dove, etc. as well as the many western-themed TV shows, The Riflemen, The High Chaparral, Wagon Train, Rawhide, Bonanza, The Big Valley, The Virginian, and The Wild, Wild West. All special memories of my childhood.

 

Years ago, I was given a cup by one of my students. It sits on the desk

of my home studio. The title

Saddle-Up! is borrowed from the John Wayne quote on the cup -

 

"Courage is being scared to death... and

saddling up anyway."

 

Saddle-Up! was not commissioned by any group and was written for the sheer fun of it. It was composed as a gift for, and dedicated to the Ouachita Baptist University, Wind Ensemble, Dr. Craig Hamilton, Director.

​

Outline of Saddle Up!

Ms. 1-8 - Rise and Shine!...We’re Burning Daylight! ...Breaking camp

Ms. 9-20 - Saddle-Up!...Move ‘em out.

Ms. 21-52 - The Drive

Ms. 53-65 - Sunset on the Prairie

Ms. 66-102 - A Night under the Stars

Ms.103-110 - Sunrise

Ms. 111-117 - Rise and Shine!...We’re Burning Daylight! ...Breaking camp

Ms. 118-127 - Saddle-Up!...Move ‘em out

Ms. 128-150 - There’s nothing like bringing in a herd.