Jointly composed by Tyler Austin and Danielle Fisher

Dedicated to Dr. Tyler Austin & the Old Dominion University Wind Ensemble

“Does it stretch out its roots…” was jointly composed by Danielle Fisher and Tyler Austin in August 2022. The composers based musical motives on plant-like imagery entwined with mysticism, and the piece includes extended techniques that simulate wind, rustling leaves, and breaking branches. Inspiration was drawn from the great Austrian poet Rainer Maria Rilke, and creates a space for reflection on the following prose:

“Go into yourself. Find out the reason that commands you to write; see whether it has spread its roots into the very depths of your heart; confess to yourself whether you would have to die if you were forbidden to write.

This most of all: ask yourself in the most silent hour of your night: must I write? Dig into yourself for a deep answer. And if this answer rings out in assent, if you meet this solemn question with a strong, simple “I must,” then build your life in accordance with this necessity; your whole life, even into its humblest and most indifferent hour, must become a sign and witness to this impulse.”