Description

This work is offered as a tribute to the faithful who each year make the HAJJ, a pilgrimage to Mecca... and to all those who make each day a new step in Life's journey.

HAJJ is about the moment before the real Prayer begins. It is fraught with intrigue, and sidetracked adventure, moments of introspection and exuberant dance! Many contrasting sections offer the ensemble its opportunity to explore superimposed styles and varied colours. The work may also be rendered as a combined work for Band of the 3rd Millennium and Jazz Ensemble. The intent of this work suggests something more global, more akin to all of our Natures. We are, it seems, always involved in a going forth. Like a pilgrim, the voyage begins with full knowledge of what to expect. And then, just like a pilgrim, when the moment of Truth arrives... it is always so much more than what was hoped for. To this journey, this quest, this pilgrimage, I leave you this piece... HAJJ

The addition of HAJJ to the repertoire is made possible by the joint effort and commitment of many dedicated individuals. My many thanks to these champions of Music and Music Education.

This piece is from the STORMJOURNEYS CD.

HAJJ is Commissioned in Consortium by:

Al Sergel and Kappa Delta Chapter of KKY, Northwest Missouri State University, Missouri
Dr. Gary Davis and Iota Psi Chapter of KKY, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Nebraska
Dr. James Hudson, and Theta Alpha Chapter of KKY, Southwest Texas State University, Texas
Dr. John Laverty and Eta Phi Chapter of KKY, Syracuse University, New York
Dr. Frank Tracz and Epsilon Pi Chapter of KKY, Kansas State University, Kansas
Dr. Rod Chestnutt and Epsilon Chapter of KKY, Mississippi State University, Mississippi
Dr. Scott A. Nelson and Kappa Epsilon Chapter of KKY, Shenandoah Conservatory, Winchester, Virginia
Jim Kull, Saint Charles High School, Illinois Steve Panoff, Tallwood High School, Virginia
Eric Wells, Saint Joseph Public Schools, Missouri