Heroes Of Hanukkah

The main theme of this composition is derived from a harmonic minor scale, and tells the musical story of a Jewish Priest, Judah Maccabee, and his brothers, who formed their own army to fight the Seleucid Empire (167-160 BCE). These brave soldiers fought against King Antiochus’ commands of forcing Jewish people to follow only his religion.

Hanukkah, which means “Dedication”, is the commemoration of the Temple restoration and Jewish worship in Jerusalem (164 BC) after Judah Maccabee tore down all the Greek statues. The miracle of Hanukkah occurred when a container of oil, enough for one night, continued to burn brightly for eight days and eight nights.

Instrumentation:

• Flute
• Oboe
• Bassoon
• Clarinet 1-2
• Bass Clarinet
• Alto Saxophone 1-2
• Tenor Saxophone
• Baritone Saxophone
• Trumpet 1-2
• Horn
• Trombone 
• Baritone (Treble and bass clef parts included)
• Tuba
• Bells
• Timpani
• 4 percussion: Snare Drum, Cowbell, Bass Drum, Tambourine, Cymbals, Bongos, High Hat