Haleakala (House of the Sun)

Named for a volcano on the Hawaiian island of Maui, Haleakala is a boldly conceived and sumptuously scored tribute to the wonder of nature. A series offerilliant fanfares, with prominent use of the brass section, leads to a broad chorale theme for the wind section that soon acquires a noble counter melody from the horn choir. After a splendidly sonorous climax, the fanfare material returns to close the piece in a grand style. This selection will work particularly well as a concert opener.