Phases - Dance of the Lunar Cycle

Grade 4 - 3:14

Phases - Dance of the Lunar Cycle follows the Moon's monthly trip. The Haunting opening section starts the New Moon, with the dance beginning with the first sliver of light. As more of the moon become illuminated, more elements are added to the dance until it becomes a a Full Moon and the dance reaches it's most raucous and wild. This progresses backwards as sections are eliminated as the light fades from the moon. Finally, the Haunting opening section returns as a mirror image of beginning, signaling the end of the cycle. With multiple meter changes and odd time signatures this piece fits nicely into the symphonic band repertoire.