PROGRAM NOTES by the composer
Blast Off! for Narrator and Orchestra (10')
BLAST OFF! is a narrated travelog of a trip to space. It can be narrated by a real astronaut or any other storyteller. The audience gets to yell "5-4-3-2-1, Blast Off!" when it's time for the launch.
Several scenes in BLAST OFF! use instrumental groups within the orchestra - for example, the woodwind section portrays Martians, and the brass section depicts the brilliant sun. These groups may be featured in pre-concert preparation of young audiences as an educational introduction to the orchestra and to the performance.
BLAST OFF! was commissioned by Lockheed Martin Technology Services for the astronaut Kenneth Reightler to narrate with the Haddonfield Symphony. Following the premiere, the score to BLAST OFF! was launched into space on the NASA Space Shuttle, STS 100.
See who else has performed BILLY AND THE CARNIVAL
See reviews of the complete CD
See the League of American Orchestras' playmusic.org feature on BLAST OFF!
Rossen Milanov conducts the Symphony in C, featuring Ann Crumb and Ukee Washington as narrators in Blast Off!, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Billy and the Carnival, and Three Fun Fables.
Dorff's narrated stories entertain adults as well as children and are frequently performed at concerts around the world, while introducing young listeners to the sounds of an orchestra. Perfect for holiday and birthday gifts, music education classes, and plain old enjoyment!
– AUDIO EXCERPTS
from the CD:
1)
"Have you ever looked up at a bright, shiny, full moon?"
2) The
brilliant and blazing sun, portrayed by the brass section with percussion
3)
The ride back home and landing
