Lake Effects was written in 2014 for the Great Lakes Trombone Ensemble who premiered the work at the International Trombone Festival on June 4th of that year. The ensemble is made up of trombonists from the finest orchestras in the Great Lakes region, and the piece takes its title from the unpredictable winter weather common in the area. Lake Effects begins with a quiet, gently undulating rhythmic motif interrupted by recitative statements in the bass trombones. This rather austere opening leads to a reverent chorale section featuring a soaring melody in the upper voices. The allegro arrives unannounced in the form of a swirling and slightly menacing theme introduced by the bass trombone over a restless ostinato. Afterwiinding its way througha gantlet of permutations, the theme ultimately surrenders to a breakneck-paced finale, a sonic blizzard to evoke the composition’s namesake storms.

I would like to acknowledge my debt of gratitude to the Great Lakes Trombone Ensemble, and especially to Shachar Israel for his efforts in the creation of this work.

Cover Art: “Sunset 5” Copyright 2011 Rich Norgard, used with permission. www.lakeeriewinds.blogspot.com

Engraved by David J. Miller www.sterlingmusiceditions.com