Unearthed

About This Piece:

"Unearthed" is a sonic excavation that digs up the imagination of the listener. A different prehistoric creature is brought to life by each movement of the piece.

The first movement paints a musical picture of the menacing Tyrannosaurus rex. The music begins with an ominous bass drum solo that imitates the sound of the apex predator's footsteps. From there, the movement builds tension through the use of unstable harmonies and insistent rhythmic patterns, illustrating the feeling of terror that a face-to-face encounter with such a beast would evoke.

Movement two portrays the majestic Brachiosaurus with a diatonic chorale. Lush chords are passed between contrasting groups of instruments, conveying both the towering grandeur and the peaceful innocence of this giant herbivore.

The third and final movment is a musical depction of a Pteranodon soaring through the skies, beginning with a heroic horn melody that is accompanied by driving rhythms and sweeping woodwind flourishes. As the music continues, the harmony utilizes stacked fourths, creating an open weightless sound that captures the thrill of flight.

"Unearthed" was premiered by the Illinois State University Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Anthony Marinello on April 22, 2026 in the Illinois State University Center for the Performing Arts.

If you wish to purchase "Unearthed," please email me at kylegillesmusic@gmail.com.