Description

Duration approximately 8:30

Take a look at the The Weaver Perusal Score

The Weaver for Orchestra was commissioned by the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras Young Artists under the direction of MaryAnn Poling. From the outset of her collaboration with Poling, Brandon sought to create a work that celebrated something uniquely connected to the state of Maryland. Her research led her to the state bird—the vibrant and musical Baltimore Oriole.

This one-movement orchestral work captures the essence of the oriole’s song and the intricate craftsmanship of how the bird weaves its cup-like nest. Transcriptions of actual birdsongs and calls are woven throughout the piece, serving as thematic material for the ensemble.

The work has several distinct sections to reflect the lifecycle and habits of this remarkable bird. In the first section (I. Birds calling across the grove) the grand and soaring “flight theme” melody is introduced. This leads into the II. Gathering section, where the orioles collect grasses and twigs to build their nests. In the next section III. Building the nest, short, staccato gestures represent the tugging and weaving motion as the birds construct their cup-shaped nests. A gentle lullaby follows (IV. Lullaby for Eggs), offering a moment of stillness as the eggs rest before hatching.

The work then becomes playful as the fledglings begin to beg for breakfast (V. The Fledglings), with rhythmic energy building in speed and excitement. In the final section, themes and bird calls from earlier in the piece return and intermingle, culminating in a joyful flight as the orioles soar into the sky.

The Weaver took its first flight on May 14, 2025 at the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, premiered by the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras’ Young Artists under the direction of MaryAnn Poling.

Instrumentation

Piccolo
Flute 1, 2
Oboe 1, 2
Clarinet in B-flat 1, 2
Bassoon 1, 2

Horn in F 1, 2, 3, 4
Trumpet in B-flat 1, 2
Tenor Trombone 1, 2
Bass Trombone
Tuba

Timpani
Percussion 1: Xylophone, Suspended Cymbal, Snare Drum
Percussion 2: Glockenspiel, Triangle, Snare Drum
Percussion 3: Chimes, Suspended Cymbal, Wind Chimes, Crash Cymbals, Temple Blocks, Triangle

Violin I
Violin II
Viola
Cello
Double Bass