The Brandon Valley Marching Lynx

2011 Field Show

"American Faces"

American Faces is a journey through the emotions of the country before, during, and after the attacks of September 11, 2001.

Movement 1

“Faces of Tragedy” is original music written by Jeremy Hegg, using the Shaker Hymn “Simple Gifts.” Note the opening of the movement is very upbeat, reflecting the hustle and bustle of a typical Tuesday morning. Note the drill is very linear, reflecting order and routine. In an instant, the music and the drill disintegrate. The music becomes very dark, as the Simple Gifts hymn becomes very dissonant and dark. Note the silk is predominately black and gray. Trombone soloist Brendan Gallo opens our first movement.

Movement 2

“Faces of Courage” is music from the Gordon Goodwin Band called “Ever Braver, Ever Stronger.” The movement is meant to reflect the quiet courage and resolve of the nation in the days following the attack. There was uncertainty, yet an underlying feeling that we as a nation would survive. Note the curvalinear texture of the drill. Also note that the silks continue be predominately grey tones, but there is also the presence of yellow, reflecting a light of hope. The second movement features solos by baritone Mark Brown, dancer Courtney Carlson, alto saxophone Haley Ullom, and trumpet Rachel Volk.

Movement 3

“Faces of Hope” is music from David Holsinger’s concert band work “American Faces.” Driving and upbeat, it provides the band with our biggest musical challenges. The exciting drill of Kevin Carlson provides great momentum to the end of the show. Holsinger uses the Simple Gifts melody, this time in its original uplifting tonality, reflecting the sense of emotional recovery and hope for a better future. The silks, in the same design as the first two movements, are now color-filled and shades of red, white, and blue.