Available here: https://composerjim.com/works/exhale/
Program Notes:
Several months ago, mid-pandemic, I was asked by Col. Don Schofield of the United States Air Force Band to write a piece full of hope: a concert opener or closer that might bring a rush of excitement to the audience, and also reflect on how grateful we all were to be in a room together again
listening to live music. I was finally able to write this new work - EXHALE! - which is meant to represent that feeling we all know as a cathartic response to a tense moment having passed. I was also inspired by the contrails - or exhalations - that are emitted from AF jets as they propel themselves upward: another visual symbol of that kind of optimism and hope. While it can't be performed right away, I certainly look forward to that time when it can be, and when we can all breathe a little easier.
~ James M. Stephenson; November, 2020
