Caim

(Concert Band)

Early in the morning of July 4, 2025 the Texas Hill Country region was devastated by catastrophic flooding of the Guadalupe River and its watershed, centered in Kerr County. Tragically, 136 and possibly more people died, including 37 children, most of whom were summer camp residents, only there for a visit. I wanted to express our collective sadness for the loss and the life-long effect it would have on so many families and communities by creating music that would hopefully provide some comfort. I also wanted to make that music accessible to audiences and suitable for performance by many groups, including school and community wind bands across Texas. I had written a simple tune, Celtic in nature which I used as the basis for Caim, pronounced key-em which is Celtic for “prayer.” Caim is intended to be music to accompany reflection and prayer for peace for those who were lost, comfort for those who lost loved ones, and pause for all those of us who will simply never comprehend the scope of the tragedy.

View Score Sample Grade 4