As the Heart Dies

Wind Ensemble | Grade 5 | ~7:00

Score & Parts — $135

Score Only — $50

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Commissioned by the University of New Hampshire Wind Symphony

As the Heart Dies tells a story that we all experience at some point in all our lives. This piece tells a specific story of a loved one in my family. My grandfather, whose heart gave in to the Angel of Death. As he lies in bed suffering from a weakening heart that is only functioning at 6%, Death slowly approaches as the sound of the final judgement is heard in the depths of darkness, the Dies Irae. Death reveals himself to take the life of my grandfather, but he gives all of his might to hold Death off.

In the second his heart fails my grandfather’s spirit continues to battle Death in what seems like a lifetime. However, as the battle ensues, the human spirit fights an uphill battle and Death finally overpowers him and takes his life.

A time of mourning is appropriate as loved ones gather to share his memories. Though we must never forget his life and the good times that we shared. For us, and for our lost loved one, our hearts will always beat in time and the lost will always be remembered.

This piece is in loving memory and dedicated to my grandfather Ronald Soule who passed on July 10th, 2012. He lived life to the fullest and you could always see him smiling and laughing. He was not only a grandfather, but he was a father, a husband, and a friend. This piece is dedicated to you Grampy, who took one day at a time. You will never be forgotten.

As the Heart Dies was premiered on November 17th, 2015 by Dr. Andrew Boysen Jr. and the University of New Hampshire Wind Symphony in Johnson Theater at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, New Hampshire.

About the Piece