The title of this work references the 1977 reaction to a radio signal anomaly from an astronomer searching for extraterrestrial life (who inscribed the record of this data with the exclamation “wow!”). As well as embracing the other-worldly associations of this reference, ‘Wow Signal’ exercises brass instruments’ capacity for simulating vocal and, in particular, verbal, sounds. Embedded within these musical shapes is a short fragment from a Giovanni Gabrieli Canzon, albeit heavily processed. ‘Wow Signal’ is composed for trombonist David Bremner, whose abilities, musicality, and energy were an immense source of inspiration.
David Bremner (trombone), New Zealand Symphony Orchestra/Hamish McKeich
2024 NZ Composer Sessions, recorded in Wellington's Michael Fowler Centre, 4 October, 2024 by RNZ Concert in partnership with the NZSO and SOUNZ Centre for New Zealand Music.
David Houston, producer & engineer
Marc Chesterman, assistant engineer
