Most often found in the midwest, supercells are gargantuan storms characterized by massive, swirling updrafts of wind known as mesocyclones, vertical cloud formations aptly named “wall clouds” and a propensity for producing violent tornados. The most dangerous of the various types of thunderstorms, supercells are one of the titans of the meteorological world.

     My work, Supercell, aims to recreate the experience of being caught in one of these colossal storms by utilizing the full, earth- shaking power of the orchestra to simulate (within the confines of a concert hall) the tempestuous sounds of the heavens.

     Beginning with ominous rumbles of thunder on the horizon, Supercell steadily brings the danger closer to the foreground and utilizes the pure sounds of the pitched, metallic percussion instruments and E-flat clarinet bird calls to establish a soothing, “calm before the storm” atmosphere. Meanwhile, soft, swirling, chromatic woodwind passages create a windy undercurrent reminding the listener of the vicious storm to come. Then, with the sudden, bone-chilling arrival of the tornado sirens we find ourselves in the fierce heart of the supercell. From this turning point onwards the piece aggressively thunders towards the final bar. Batten down the hatches, there’s a storm a-comin’.