origin story: "Program Notes [...] This might possibly be the most ironic piece I have ever written in my life. It began when a music program received a grant to commission a new work. The work was to be the highlight of the year for the students. But before starting the piece, I received notice from Rick Palese, band director at Prairie Hill Elementary in Cary, Illinois, that the district had a budget shortfall. The grant itself was not affected, but one [of] the mandated cuts was the band program, grades 5-8. So began the process of writing a world premiere for a band that would no longer exist after its performance. Even more ironic is that it was written as the final piece for their concert. It would not be the last work the band would ever play. The title, Colliding Visions, focuses on the important issue facing the arts everywhere. This piece serves as an important reminder that we must all share our passion for music with others. When people look to cut funds, we should state with a firm and unified voice that it should not be from the arts. The arts are crucial to our culture and to our own well-being. Further, this adaptable arrangement comes in response to COVID-19, a time when music programs once again are fighting to remain in schools. If ever there was a time when students needed music in their lives, that time is now. - Program Note by composer"
music: Colliding Visions, by Brian Balmages background: Vecteezy shooting stars: CodeMyUI image: of Brian Balmages more at https://www.windrep.org/Colliding_Visions
