Austin Symphonic Band Performing Halcyon Hearts

Austin Symphonic Band ( https://austinsymphonicband.org/ ). May 17, 2025. ASB performing Halcyon Hearts by Katahj Copley. [NOTE: Click 'more' to read the program notes.] Music Director Dr. Kyle R. Glaser conducting. "A John Williams Celebration!" concert at the Festival Concert Hall at Round Top Festival Institute in Round Top, Texas. This program was part of a joint concert with the Mansfield Wind Symphony and the Sugar Land Winds.

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Video and Sound Production: Eddie Jennings

From the program notes written by David Cross:
Halcyon Hearts (2021, revised 2023)
Katahj Copley (b. 1998)

Program Note by the composer:

"love does not
delight in evil-
but rejoices
with the truth
it will always
protect
trust
hope
and persevere
for you-
love never fails.

The effect of love on humanity is abundant and I think we forget that from time to time. Regardless of race, gender, religion, or indifference, we are all united by a common thread: passion and love.

Centered around the warmth that love brings, Halcyon Hearts takes us on an unexpected journey to find love. While this love may result to be romantic for some, to me is about the moment someone finds their passion. Using colors, natural energy, and passion, I created a sound of ambition for the ensemble.

I would like to dedicate this piece to those who love all of mankind — no matter the negativity around you. Let love be love and always choose it — when you do, the halcyon days will come."

Georgia native Katahj Copley (he/him/his) premiered his first work, Spectra, in 2017 and hasn’t stopped composing since. As of now, Katahj has written over 100 works, including pieces for chamber ensembles, wind ensembles and orchestra. His compositions have been performed and commissioned by universities, organizations, and professional ensembles, including the Cavaliers Brass, California Band Director Association, Admiral Launch Duo, and “The President’s Own” Marine Band. Katahj has also received critical acclaim internationally with pieces being performed in Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, China, and Australia.

Katahj received two Bachelor of Music degrees from the University of West Georgia in Music Education and Composition in 2021. In 2023, he received his Masters in Music Composition from the University of Texas at Austin — studying with Omar Thomas and Yevgeniy Sharlat. He is currently studying music composition at Michigan State University.

Aside from composing, Katahj is an excited educator who teaches young musicians the joy of discovering music and why music is a phenomenal language.

He says:

“Music for me has always been this impactful thing in my life. It can soothe, it can enrage, it can quiet, and it can evoke emotions that are beyond me and this world we live in. I believe that music is the ultimate source of freedom and imagination. The most freedom I have had as a musician was through composing. Composition is like me opening my heart and showing the world my drive, my passion, and my soul.”

Listen for:
• A driving pulse underneath a triumphant melody
• Extensive use of major seventh chords