Katahj Copley- Where the Sky Has No Stars (Texas A&M University- Kingsville Wind Symphony)

The most beautiful thoughts are always beside the darkest. When writing this work, I thought of one of the first moments of darkness in my life. The pain and loneliness I felt at the time can never be forgotten for me; to not want to be alive. At that time depression and loneliness were things that haunted me a child, they still do at times. However through time I learned how to strive to be happy and embrace life no matter what had happened to me.



The beginning of the piece begins with singing bowls and metallic percussion. This is a symbol of meditation and the centering of the soul. From their the first theme is introduced by the flute- followed by a duet with the euphonium. The second theme, the theme of darkness, is introduced by the euphonium as more voices creep in slowly. The listener embarks through the sky of no stars. With each turn, comes more danger and more intrigue.

However there is a section of joy as the light of life is gleaming in the distance. From there, the glockenspiel introduces the third theme- a theme representing home and happiness. As the piece continues the darkness creeps in until the end with a warm embrace of happiness and life that finds the soul at peace.

​

The piece ends with a look at the first theme. Now in the major mode the soul is replenish- it feels different- and slowly returns home.

This is Where the Sky Has No Stars.