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Birds of Thunder
Composed by MSgt John Bliss
 Click to Play Mp3
Birds of Thunder portrays the artistry of the USAF Thunderbirds: both the serenity of the aerial ballet (as seen from afar) and the daring precision (as felt from the cockpit).
Threaded throughout the piece are sweeping orchestral effects suggesting specific maneuvers: independent musical lines converging, diverging, moving tightly in tandem and sometimes leaving vapor trails behind. In broader terms, the melodies symbolize the spirit of the legendary Thunderbird.
Its mystical "call" opens the work; a soaring lyrical theme depicts freedom in flight, while the following dramatic motive coveys the Thunderbird's penchant for speed and bravura. The piece closes with a conversation of Thunderbirds in full fury.
The musical language is also driven by the classic "diamond" formation. Melodies are based on the musical interval of a perfect fourth, and the supporting harmony showcases tight four-note clusters. The orchestration frequently groups performers in fours, and also exploits the "quartal" qualities of individual instruments" the four strings of the cello, for instance, or four timpani drums.
The work's conceptual and technical demands take full advantage of the skill of The USAF Band, a cutting-edge musical ensemble, which like the USAF Thunderbirds, represents the excellence and professionalism found throughout the Air Force.
Score and Parts
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