Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
RHAPSODY FOR BRASS BAND: THE WIZARD OF MEMLO PARK is a vivid musical portrait of
one of history’s most influential inventors, Thomas Alva Edison. Structured as a continuous
rhapsody, the work unfolds in four interconnected sections, each reflecting a defining aspect
of Edison’s life and legacy, while weaving recurring thematic material into an evolving musical
narrative.
The opening, A MASTER OF MECHANICS, introduces Edison’s relentless curiosity and
inventive spirit through energetic and rhythmically driven motifs. This leads seamlessly into
THE PHONOGRAPH, where a more playful and characterful atmosphere emerges, evoking the
wonder of capturing sound for the very first time. In MEMORIES OF MARY, the music turns
inward, offering a lyrical and expressive reflection on Edison’s personal life and emotional
depth. Finally, THE LIGHT BULB ignites the rhapsody’s climactic trajectory, culminating in a
brilliant and triumphant finale that symbolizes one of his most iconic achievements and his
lasting impact on the modern world.
Although the work loosely follows a chronological arc, its thematic material is continuously
transformed and revisited, creating cohesion across contrasting moods and textures. The
result is a dynamic and engaging concert piece that balances technical demand with
expressive depth.
Commissioned by Greve Pigegarde, this work received its premiere at the
Danish National Championships for Marching Bands in July 2026, conducted by the composer.
DURATION: c. 10 minutes - GRADE: 4
RHAPSODY FOR BRASS BAND: THE WIZARD OF MEMLO PARK is a vivid musical portrait of
one of history’s most influential inventors, Thomas Alva Edison. Structured as a continuous
rhapsody, the work unfolds in four interconnected sections, each reflecting a defining aspect
of Edison’s life and legacy, while weaving recurring thematic material into an evolving musical
narrative.
The opening, A MASTER OF MECHANICS, introduces Edison’s relentless curiosity and
inventive spirit through energetic and rhythmically driven motifs. This leads seamlessly into
THE PHONOGRAPH, where a more playful and characterful atmosphere emerges, evoking the
wonder of capturing sound for the very first time. In MEMORIES OF MARY, the music turns
inward, offering a lyrical and expressive reflection on Edison’s personal life and emotional
depth. Finally, THE LIGHT BULB ignites the rhapsody’s climactic trajectory, culminating in a
brilliant and triumphant finale that symbolizes one of his most iconic achievements and his
lasting impact on the modern world.
Although the work loosely follows a chronological arc, its thematic material is continuously
transformed and revisited, creating cohesion across contrasting moods and textures. The
result is a dynamic and engaging concert piece that balances technical demand with
expressive depth.
Commissioned by Greve Pigegarde, this work received its premiere at the
Danish National Championships for Marching Bands in July 2026, conducted by the composer.
DURATION: c. 10 minutes - GRADE: 4