According to the program notes in the conductor's score, "it was inspired by folk recordings of Theodore Bikel and groups like The Limelighters." To prevent the voice from being overpowered by the band, much of the craft of Gilmore's work lies in his judicious balance of voice and instruments.Humboldt State University Department of Music, Paul Cummings: Director's Notes for Symphonic Band Rarely are all musicians performing at once, yet there is sufficient variety of dynamics and textures to create interest. The light construction of the piece allows for the use of solos to emulate a character rarely heard in traditional wind band music. For example, the 2nd Movement features a nearly two-minute long improvisatory cadenza for clarinet alone which lends a nostalgic quality.
