Shattered Illusions by Brandon Cummings

The TCU Percussion Orchestra II, conducted by Brian A. West, performs "Shattered Illusions" by Brandon Cummings live on 10-29-2024. Posted with permission.

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Commissioned by the Springtown High School Percussion Ensemble, Rachel Garza, Director

Shattered Illusions (2024) – Brandon Cummings

Shattered Illusions explores the challenges of adversity. We often hold these experiences so intensely that we forget to question our beliefs about them. Many aspects of life carry this danger. However, the conversation doesn’t stop there; there is beauty in looking at things through a kaleidoscope or from a different perspective. Even amid a so-called negative experience, there are often beautiful moments to appreciate. You can easily find these by being open to changing your perspective. I like to think we grow the most from our biggest challenges and failures. Best of all, we become better versions of ourselves by respecting them.

In the piece, constant textural changes represent this phenomenon. Performers are challenged to transfigure one idea into the next through various related rhythms, chords, or even mallet/implement changes. Each new section represents a new perspective on the moment at hand. This demonstrates how every part of life’s challenges and joys is indeed connected. These dense moments should be appreciated, and I believe we are very lucky to experience them.

Notes by the composer