An original song written for the Calibrate youth camp Spring 2018

Calibrate

From the film "White Fight"--a psychological drama about a heroin addict who drinks milk to try to soothe his withdrawls.


Main Title

Next Stop Suite I: “Expectation & Disappointment”

This album consists of four original compositions and one arrangement. Each piece was either inspired by or attempts to reflect some sort of story—hence the title: “The Narrative.”  

The first four tracks comprise the Next Stop Suite, which features string orchestra, piano and penny whistle. It was inspired by a short film about a boy who has never met his father, but is convinced he will come because it is the boy’s birthday. The boy never gives up hope, despite numerous disappointments, and eventually his hopes are fulfilled. 

Track 5, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” is a set of variations for guitar and cello on the traditional hymn tune, composed by Lowell Mason, which attempts to convey the story of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection.

“Godric’s Final Wash” features a brass quintet, piano, percussion, and tenor. It was inspired by novel, Godric, by Frederic Buechner. It is a very gritty and realistic story about a saint in the 11th century. Godric is revered as a holy man but feels unworthy and sinful because he has made many mistakes in his life. The text of this piece contains his final words as he washes in the river. It is an obvious metaphor for Christ's redemption.

The goal of this album is to make the listener feel as if the music is being performed right in front of them. To accomplish this, most of the ensembles were recorded together, and the mix includes the natural ambiance of the large recital hall in which it was recorded as well as some studio reverb. The hope is that the music takes the listener on a journey and conveys the rich experiences which can be found in a well-crafted narrative.


Next Stop Suite II: “Hope”

Next Stop Suite III: "Fulfillment”

Next Stop Suite IV: “Postlude”

 Lyrics:
 
     How rough and yet how soft the rivers touch!
     He falls about my shoulders like a silver shawl,
     He chills me to the marrow of my bones,
     He leaps and dances in the sun.
     
     He washes all my foulness off.
     And all the while He slaps His rocky thighs
     And roars with mirth.

     Hoist my hand, 
     For all is lost.
     Hoist my hand, 
     For all is found.

“Godric’s Final Wash” features a brass quintet, piano, percussion, and tenor. It was inspired by novel, Godric, by Frederic Buechner. It is a very gritty and realistic story about a saint in the 11th century. Godric is revered as a holy man but feels unworthy and sinful because he has made many mistakes in his life. The text of this piece contains his final words as he washes in the river. It is an obvious metaphor for Christ's redemption.

Benwhitmore

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