Cactus Blossom

Commissioned by the Lamont Jazz Orchestra at the University of Denver in 2023, Annie Booth's "Cactus Blossom" was composed shortly after and inspired by a trip to one of her favorite places in her home state of Colorado, the San Luis Valley.

A high altitude desert known for its stunning sunsets of blood-red, purple, and pink, the valley is also peppered with beautiful orange and yellow cactus blossoms in the spring and summer. Looking down at the valley floor and noticing these blossoms was a literal reminder that beauty exists in small moments and we can find it in every corner of our lives if we pay attention.

The hallmark of the piece is its lyrical melody, which floats overtop of an energetic rhythmic motif that binds much of the piece. A metric modulation into a layered, moody 12/8 afro-cuban section provides contrast before an improvised solo feature for soprano sax and/or voice.

There are two versions of "Cactus Blossom" included with purchase. The forms and rehearsal marks are identical.

1. The original vocal version

   • Featured vocalist (wordless vocals)

   • Solo section at Letter I can be for voice, soprano sax, or both trading.

   • The alto 1 part calls for flute & soprano saxophone

2. The re-orchestrated instrumental only version

   • No vocalist (instrumental only)

   • Solo section at Letter I for soprano sax

   • The alto 1 part calls for soprano saxophone only (no flute)

More Info:

1. Standard large jazz ensemble instrumentation. Woodwind doubles in the alto 1 part (flute & soprano sax or only soprano sax) and bari sax part (bass clarinet). Flugelhorn in trumpet 2 part.

2. Solo sections in: Soprano Sax and/or Voice

3. Vocal range (vocal version only): B3-F5

4. Highest note for lead trumpet = Concert D6 (written high E)

5. Highest note on lead trombone: A4