Prairie Sunset

“Prairie Sunset” is a lush and introspective work for very young band, capturing the slow transformation of colors in the Canadian prairie sky as the sun sets. Composed by Kenley Kristofferson, this work won the Grade 1–2 category of the 2023 WASBE Composition Competition. It introduces students to changing textures within the ensemble at a technically accessible level, enabling concepts like tone color, blend, shape, and line direction without the complexity of challenging notes and rhythms. Both students and audiences are sure to be moved by this evocative and expressive composition. An outstanding musical work for first-year bands!