Cape Breton Skies

There are few things in this world that are more spectacular than the view from the cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. An island located on Nova Scotia’s eastern end, Cape Breton boasts some of Canada's most breathtaking scenic views from lush boreal forests to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, this magical place has captivated its visitors for centuries. Cape Breton Skies was inspired by a stormy hike along the parks’ Appalachian mountain trail. The grey, cloud soaked coastline perfectly contrasted the vibrant green pine needles of the surrounding trees.

Approaching the lookout to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the wind at the mountains peaked, thrashed, and roared at a maximum of 200 Kilometres an hour. The piece's beautiful melodies and energetic vigour creates a musical soundscape which depicts the coastal scenery from the cliffs lookout points. The ending of the piece, a delicate eclipse, represents the beautiful, rich sunset that followed nature's powerful storm. Winner of the 2024 Howard Cable Memorial Prize in Composition, Cape Breton Skies has been celebrated for its unique storytelling quality that transports audiences to the quaint, ruggard shores of Eastern Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton Skies is the winner of the 2024 Howard Cable Memorial Prize in Composition organized by the Canadian Band Association. With profound gratitude, this symphonic creation is dedicated to Newmarket High School and Cheryl Cline; for their invitation to step into their space, guest conduct, and premiere this enchanting composition on December 13th, 2023. As Cape Breton Skies is the winner of the Canadian Band Association’s 2024 Howard Cable Memorial Prize in Composition, I give many thanks to the following organizations, groups, and conductors for their support in this year’s Howard Cable Memorial Prize and making this competition possible.