Hyperion

Hyperion is the tallest known living tree in the world. Writing this piece, I wanted to envision looking at this tree and admiring its stature, from its dense roots and impressive stature to its fleeting branches and delicate leaves. This is contrasted by the reality of Hyperion’s ephemerality, as trees like this commonly fall. Two main motifs drive the work. One introduced by the trumpets in a fanfare opening representing Hyperion and its brilliance, and another motive softly in the strings representing its delicate nature. The climax of the work depicts a storm coming through and eventually subsiding, and the soft, ambiguous ending can be interpreted in any way. Hyperion was written for Hector Guzman and the Irving Symphony Orchestra and is approximately 7’ in duration.