Abstract
The purpose of this essay is to present an examination of Steven Bryant's first large-scale composition for wind ensemble and electronics entitled Ecstatic Waters. The study provides new research on Bryant's compositional development and method, and examines the composition as it directly relates to the performance decisions and challenges faced by conductors and performers of this work. As electro-acoustic works are quite rare in the wind ensemble repertoire, this essay considers the composition not only from a musical perspective, but also from a technical one, serving as a valuable resource for future researchers and performers. The data for this study are collected through three different methods. The primary method is through the detailed study of the musical score. A secondary method includes observation of and participation in rehearsals during the performance preparation of Ecstatic Waters by the University of Miami Frost Wind Ensemble, Gary Green, conductor. A third method is through an extensive interview of Steven Bryant, used to supplement and enhance the research. Ecstatic Waters succeeds in artistically blending sounds of the acoustic wind ensemble and digital electronics, and has proven to be an aesthetically appealing and musically substantial contribution to the wind ensemble repertoire.