The Cradled Immanuel
for brass quintet
The Cradled Immanuel is a chamber work for brass quintet inspired by the musical and devotional atmosphere of Christmastide. Its title points toward the central image of the season: the divine made small, vulnerable, and held.
The work draws on the ceremonial resonance of brass while balancing that brilliance with music of greater warmth and intimacy. Chorale-like sonorities, fanfare gestures, and quieter reflective passages move alongside one another, creating a sound world that can suggest both public celebration and private contemplation.
Rather than functioning as a conventional holiday arrangement, The Cradled Immanuel uses the familiar musical language of Christmas as part of a broader original design. Seasonal associations emerge within the piece without defining it completely, allowing the music to stand on its own while remaining naturally suited to performances during Advent and Christmastide.
At its heart, the work reflects on contrast: grandeur and tenderness, proclamation and stillness, the brilliance of brass surrounding the image of something quietly cradled.
Performance Materials
Performance materials are available directly from the composer at competitive, ensemble-friendly rental rates. Please contact the composer to discuss your performance, ensemble needs, and rental options.
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