Obsidian (2010)
(A Volcanic Ash Lullaby)

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass and was very topical in 2010: the threat of its presence in European airspace brought Europe to a complete standstill in April 2010 when Icelandic Volcano Mount Eyjafjallajokull began eruptions and airports across Europe were forced to close. Coincidentally, before this happened, I had already thought of the title and concept for Obsidian, my first work for brass band. Often I find inspiration in geology, and especially in the history and myths associated with rocks and minerals. In ancient times, obsidian was sought and used for cutting tools, weapons (for example on Easter Island) and ceremonial points such as spearheads. Now it is used in jewellery, scalpel blades, mirrors and even wind chimes. In Obsidian, I have sculpted brass sounds in order to encapsulate these myths as well as the natural qualities of obsidian – dark in appearance, glassy, and sharp to touch.

Emily Howard, 2010