Written in response to a young high school student’s tragic passing, If Heaven Had a Window is an emotional, yet hopeful ballad which also honors our own loved ones who have passed on.

Sample Score

Program Notes

In 2016, River Bluff High School of Lexington, South Carolina suffered a great loss as one of their students, Lewis Simpkins, passed away before his time. As a school, they gathered together like never before to honor this wonderful student and family. This new piece was literally written within 3 days after the tragic events as a token of honor and humble appreciation. The title If Heaven Had a Window implies that when we think of all the loved ones that have passed, we are actually looking through a window and witnessing where they are now, and celebrating the fact that we will see them again. To honor Lewis, the piece begins and ends with percussion, as he was a member of the band in that section. The composer also hints at the River Bluff High School alma mater to honor how our community came together during the difficult time. This piece is dedicated to the Simpkins family, the community of River Bluff High School, and any loved one we have lost in our life times.

Instrumentation

Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Clarinet 1
B-flat Clarinet 2
B-flat Clarinet 3
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1
Alto Saxophone 2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
B-flat Trumpet 3
F Horn
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Euphonium
Baritone T.C.
Tuba

Timpani [4 drums]
Keyboard Percussion: Chimes, Bells
Percussion 1/2: Snare Drum, Bass Drum
Percussion 3/4: Crash Cymbals, Triangle, Mark Tree, Suspended Cymbal