Processional piece for ensemble with handbells
Duration 7:30 approximately
Instrumentation:
- small drum
- 2 cellos
- handbells (chromatic set of 13, c-c) 11 players - one doubling accordion (or similar instrument), others doubling handheld percussion, timpani
- group of wind/brass players, voices (no set instrumentation) at least 3 performers, bass drum
- Optional: bottles, other accordions, melodicas, organ etc.
Aim Straight for Starlight is a processional piece that symbolises the movement of life from Earth into the wider Universe.
The piece is 'modular' in the sense that different elements may be omitted. It could be performed
by handbells only, or without the band. The handbells music is available as a piano part - the pianist could perform at the same time as the handbells. If the performers do not include voices, then some attempt should be made to present the text of the band melody: either in the concert programme, or as a spoken introduction.