David Lovrien
The Midwesterner
The march begins with an introductory phrase followed by simple marching melody which conjures images of early European immigrants journeying across the wilderness towards their new American homes in the upper Midwest. The melody is repeated twice in different styles. The second section (or "strain") features the low brass, then the first melody returns, this time pompous and commanding. The third melody (or "trio") is announced by a trumpet call, followed by a softly swaying, dance-like melody in the clarinets which is then repeated with flutes and bells dancing on top. The initial theme bursts through one more time before the march ends with a triumphal repeat of the trio melody.
"The Midwesterner" was commissioned by the Lakeshore Symphonic Band of Cedarburg, Wisconsin in 2007 and received its world premiere in October 2008. Grade 4.
