Infinite Hope - Brian Balmages

"We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Infinite Hope was commissioned in honor of the 70th anniversary of the Texas Bandmasters Association (TBA). It was premiered by the United States Coast Guard Band at the TBA Convention in San Antonio.
About the piece the composer writes:
Inspired by the juxtaposition of uncertainty and boundless optimism, Infinite Hope seeks to forge a path of faith, trust, belief, and assurance amidst a world of chaos. It reminds us that hopes and dreams are all around us, and that, as Robert Fulghum said, "...hope always triumphs over experience." At some point in life, most of us experience moments that truly test our resolve -- either as individuals or as a society. Despite those tests, we can always look inward and outward -- and refuel on the hopes within ourselves and in others. And in that very moment, we find ourselves sharing in the magic of infinite hope.
- Program note from University of Georgia Hodgson Symphonic Band concert program, 24 September 2018 (sourced from the Wind Repertory Project)
The Oklahoma City Symphonic Band is under the direction of Dr. Mark G. Belcik. We were pleased to have Mr. Balmages guest conduct the band, and give us his personal insights to his compositions.
Video Links:
Oklahoma City Symphonic Band 2024 Spring Concert:
“The Music of Brian Balmages”
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