Jointly composed by Tyler Austin and Danielle Fisher

Dedicated to Kim Austin

Written for Dr. Tyler Austin & the Oklahoma State University Concert Band

Reformation was jointly composed by Tyler Austin and Danielle Fisher in December 2020. The majority of writing took place within an intense two week period. It was cathartic as a positive collaboration amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The piece takes its source material from the Lutheran anthem “Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott", which translates as “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”.  This chorale was superimposed with original material from one of Danielle’s earliest melodies for winds.  The piece’s title has a double meaning: First, that the piece draws its inspiration from Martin Luther’s chorale which served as an emboldening piece of music that lead a theological revolution, and second, that both the chorale and accompanying melody are “re-formed” through dual sets of variations. 

Luther’s chorale begins the piece in a variation set by Austin and Fisher.  The chorale presents in a second variation by Johann Sebastian Bach in measure 44, before culminating triumphantly with Martin Luther’s original chorale at measure 82. In contrast, Fisher’s melody presents first at measure 16 in its original form and subsequently develops in variations throughout the piece. This interlocking material creates a mirrored Theme and Variations form, where one theme moves closer to its original setting while the other develops away from its original setting into something new.  A solemn coda for flute and saxophone quartet beginning at measure 110 displays Luther’s chorale in a variation set by his dear friend Johann Walther. Austin and Fisher selected this setting as a reflection of their own friendship.