LOGAN LARSON
cryptic frequencies: movement iv. WHEN THE UNIVERSE UNFURLS (2026)
grade 4 concert band and fixed media
Instrumentation
Piccolo, Flute 1 and 2, Oboe, Eb Clarinet, Bb Clarinet 1, 2, and 3, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone 1 and 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Horn in F 1 and 2, Trumpet in Bb 1, 2, and 3, Trombone 1 and 2, Bass Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion 1, 2, 3, and 4 and Fixed Media.
Performance Notes
Stereo playback required for the electronic track. The speakers should be in front/the side of the band pointed towards the audience. This will create the correct blend of sound for the audience. If the band is extremely large, the fixed media can also be played through the hall to create a 50/50 blend in the sound, but this should be a secondary option.
For the conductor, the fixed media and concert band should ALWAYS be balanced in a 50/50 split. The band is obviously the thing we should be hearing a little more of but do not lose the backing track in the overall sound, the blend is what makes this different.
Program Notes
The fourth movement of Cryptic Frequencies, “When The Universe Unfurls”, represents 963 Hz (Crown Chakra) and creates room for oneself and unity. This chakra connects us to a higher consciousness, spirituality, and oneness with all things. It is believed to promote enlightenment, letting go, and connecting to a higher purpose. It is said to help overcome ego, limitations, and connect with a sense, a divine love and unity. In this movement we focus on linking with our mind and true self to be ready for a transformation of self. The EDM genre explored in this movement is Deep Dubstep/Grime/140.
Fixed Media Aural References
Track Begins; 0:00
1: Rhythmic percussion enters; 0:13
2: Drop 1; 0:27
3: Repeat of Rehearsal 2; 0:41
4: Ethereal pads enter, mood changes; 0:54
5: New pad layers enters; 1:08
6: “Ooo” vocals enters; 1:22
7: Drop 2; 1:36
8: Rehearsal 7 material returns; 1:49
9: Drums exit, ethereal shift returns, mood changes; 2:03
10: Light percussion enters; 2:17
11: Drop 3, return of Rehearsal 2 with slight rhythmic changes; 2:24
12: Synths from Drop 1 and Drop 2 enter in a new rhythmic combination; 2:37
13: Ethereal synth returns, mood changes; 2:51
14: Drums exit; 3:05
Percussion Legend
This is for Percussion 4 with regards to the Drum Set. The drum set part is standard, but this is no kick drum, and the hi-hat is always closed. In the picture below, it depicts the notes used for this movement.
Cross Cueing
If parts in the score do not meet your ensemble’s instrumentation, please contact Logan Larson directly at LoganTLarson@gmail.com for transposed parts. In case of missing oboe, an alternate oboe part has been written for Bb clarinet. In case of missing bassoon, an alternate oboe part has been written for Bass Clarinet. In case of missing French Horn, an alternate oboe part has been written for Trumpet. In case of missing Euphonium, an alternate oboe part has been written for Trombone. Any other missing instruments cues can be available upon request with substitutes depending on your ensemble’s needs.
Movement of Audience and Additional Components
Movement for a concert band piece being performed in a concert hall might seem to be counterintuitive, with the audience and concert band being seated. While not required for performance, the option of adding interdisciplinary elements is encouraged. Collaborating with a dance department/dancers to further illustrate the story would allow for movement to be integrated in the performance. With the visuals that accompany this work, this can add new opportunities for lighting design and other theatrical components. I’ve had people give the ensemble and audience members glow sticks and even conduct with a glow stick. Even in a concert hall setting, while not common, movement of the audience can be encouraged. Asking the audience to stand and dance is not out of the realm of possibilities. The performance of this work can also be outside of the concert hall and give a less restrictive space for the audience to move and dance.
Snare Drum Low Tom Low-Mid Tom High-Mid Tom High Tom Closed Hi-hat Crash Cymbal
Cryptic
Vibraphone: Hard Yarn Mallets
Xylophone: Hard
Cryptic Frequencies:
Cryptic Frequencies: Movement IV. When The Universe Unfurls
With excitement and groove