Montana State University is thrilled to lead the consortium of a new work for modern wind band by Montana composer, Tyler Harrison.

This will be a three-movement composition (est grade 4-5) dedicated to North American landscapes, particularly to mountains. Nature and the outdoors are a vital part of life in Montana. Our landscapes have inspired poets, artists, and composers (including the likes of David Maslanka) and now we are offering the opportunity for bands from all over to share in the creation of new music crafted by one of our most skilled composers.

Tyler Harrison Tyler Harrison, of Hamilton Montana, was a student of David Maslanka and is wholly committed to continuing in his compositional vein. His recent works, including the monumental Symphony No. 2 are exceptionally unique (and difficult) instrumental works. This consortium will provide the band world with a much more accessible set of movements which are playable by all collegiate and most advanced high school bands.

When Tyler is not composing, he is an educator and advocate for neurodiversity. Stemming from his own life experiences, Tyler seeks to help those (young and old) who have been unable to otherwise connect to society. His heartfelt and empathic nature, along with endless devotion, had led to many incredible stories of success for his students and serves as a beacon of hope for all who struggle with mental health, neurodiversity, and severe emotional disabilities.

MSU is proud to support his mission and his music through the commissioning of Three North American Landscapes.

To join this commission, please complete the form below. The Beta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi will be issuing invoices and collecting fees. We can accept check or credit (i.e. purchasing) card. 

Buy-in is $250 for the three-movement work. The name of each commissioning institution and director will be included in the score and members of the consortium will have exclusive performance rights through January 1, 2027. The premiere performance will occur in fall of 2025 at Montana State University.

Join the Consortium!

The first movement of Three North American Landscapes, Visions in Vallarta was originally conceived on the boat to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta. I had visions of the Sierra Madres singing to me, and this is what I heard. The piece portrays an old mountain range singing beside the ocean. The canons paint the sounds of ocean waves, while the climax reflects the stunning views from the journey to and from Yelapa.

This is the second movement of my new work for band, Three North American Landscapes. The Bitterroot is the name of the valley where I live in Montana. The valley offers panoramic views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Ranges with incredible sunsets over the valley's many canyons. Nature is everywhere here. It is so quiet and peaceful that birdsong can be heard clearly while hiking or walking. Birdwatching is one of my favorite pastimes here, and this movement features many birdcalls I often hear living in Montana.