Forest Dwellers

Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra - 30'
Solo Tbn..; 3(1.2.3/Pic.) 3(1.2.3/EH) 3(1.2.3/Bcl.) 3(1.2.3/Cbsn.) - 4 3 3 1; Timp. 3Perc. Pno. Hp. Str.
Commissioned by Adam Hanna.
Premiering 2023

Forest Dwellers is a rhapsodic work about three fascinating, omnipotent and allusive Chickasaw legends. Like my ancestors, I am intrigued about their mystery and how their underlying spirits are fortified. This concerto seeks to use the trombone as the voice of these creatures, guiding orchestra and audience through many dimensions of color, textures, moods and ethos’ that make up their power.

I. Lhofa' (Forest Giant) is a Bigfoot-like creature that lived in the intersecting region of Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi, originally dominated by Chickasaw people. A malevolent being, he was known for skinning his victims and exuding a horrifying odor. He lives in the deepest parts of the woods and has a keen sense of smell that allows him to find his prey. He has the ability to speak clearly, can trick any person or animal into their doom and will make whistling sounds as he stalks through the forest.

II. Iyaaknasha' (Little Helper) is a small creature, similar to a leprechaun. In the old days, he would assist traditional Indian Doctors in finding natural medicines and teach the doctors how to apply them. This immortal creature is very evasive and prefers not to be seen. Some people have said that they can see bouncing lights in the forest, who are the Iyaaknasha' looking for their new
master.

III. Itti' Bo'li (Tree Strike) is a forest being who has wooden arms and creates gargantuan thunder sounds when striking them against trees. He is not the thunder but is mistaken for it. It is believed that, if a person sets eyes on him, they will never be found again. Many Chickasaw families invoke the story of Itti' Bo'li to keep their children safe from venturing too far into the woods.