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Aspire by Jennifer Higdon (2022)

Having started my journey in music in the band world, I have always found this genre deeply moving. One of my first experiences of enjoying a band performance was hearing “The President’s Own,” on the U.S. Capitol steps during a summer vacation in Washington, D.C. To be asked to write a work for them was an incredible opportunity.


I decided early in the process to create a work that would be more lyrical in nature, that would reflect the gifts and skills of these talented musicians, as well as their innermost values as individuals who strive to serve their country with great honor. In other words, I was inspired to create a piece that musically portrays the goal of striving to be our best…to aspire."


Program notes by the composer.


COMMISSIONED BY


World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) for “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.


INAUGURAL PERFORMANCE


Performed by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band on July 20, 2022 at the WASBE Prague International Conference.


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Image by Rafael Ishkhanyan

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