Steven Franklin: Skylight for five trumpets

About Franklin: Skylight for five trumpets

Franklin: Skylight for five trumpets is a striking composition inspired by the Adirondack Mountains in New York State. Composer Steven Franklin drew his inspiration from Mount Skylight, the third highest peak in the park. Consequently, the work captures both the solitude of the rugged landscape and the vitality of nature.

Structure and character

The piece unfolds in two through-composed sections. It begins with a simple solo line built largely on perfect intervals, creating a sense of openness and grandeur. Gradually, this melody passes through the ensemble, expanding into sweeping vistas and echoing the distinctive call of the White-throated Sparrow. This detail adds authenticity and a strong connection to the natural world.

The second section contrasts with the first. It is lively, rhythmic, and full of energy, representing the vitality of summer in the Adirondacks. Built on fragments of the opening material, this part transforms into fast-moving chorales and a fugato. The driving motive eventually propels the music to a brilliant conclusion.

Instrumentation and performance

The composition is scored for four trumpets in C and one trumpet in B♭. This setup offers both clarity and depth, giving ensembles the chance to explore a wide range of textures. While the opening demands precision and expressive phrasing, the faster passages require agility and balance across the trumpet section.

Availability and media

This edition is available from Saker Music Company as both printed and digital sheet music. Moreover, it has been recorded by the Temple University Trumpet Ensemble in 2019, providing an excellent reference for interpretation.

👉 Read more about Steven Franklin on his official page
👉 Browse more trumpet ensemble sheet music.

🎧 Listen to the Temple University Trumpet Ensemble recording on YouTube.