Sulfur Wind - March Challenge 2025

This piece is based off of the Metal Tiger, the Chinese zodiac representing the birth year of 2010. The animal is associated with Justice, along with leadership, and independence. It begins with a hazed and mystical flute solo, representing a tear in justice; a misunderstanding, accompanied by the French horn. This develops into an intense Oboe line, which closes the first movement. The tempo is increased to 160 BPM, with a motorized bass line, and a snare. The Clarinet’s state the piece’s main melody, being graceful Gazelles. The trombones represent a deeper threat, which reveals itself as the mighty tiger through a tremendous tear in the French horns, and the chase begins. This shows the tiger’s independence, using determination and strength to catch a meal. Abruptly, it slows, a sudden realization that all is not what it seems.. As the monkey, our tiger’s opposite, shows itself. Its cunning and deceitful nature are displayed throughout a small flute and trumpet duet. This comes to a close with a clumsy tuba solo. A jazzy, funky duet between the horn and the trumpet are the bugles that relay the end. A small restatement of the melody plays, ending the piece. Or not, as a small cub, the start of a great life, sings a soft melody, which is closed out by a gentle chord.