Beginning research for the concept of this symphony in 1999, Matt Messina asked one simple question to hundreds of people "What do you consider the most important moments in your life?" After traveling to remote parts of the world (including Thailand, Fiji, New Zealand, Switzerland) to ask the same question to peoples of another culture for comparison, he found the same response again and again "The day my children were born."

The orchestra consists of wind, brass, and strings played by members of the Seattle Symphony. Thunderous Japanese taiko drums are struck by members of Seattle Kokon Taiko. Special Guest, Australian Didgeridoo player, Aaron Straight brings this rhythmic instrument to life in a brilliant solo piece.

The 10-movement symphony explores Eastern music written for Western instruments and vie versa. There is simplicity in the 3-note melody, which is introduced in the beginning and revisited throughout the work.

This is Matt Messina's 2nd symphony and 3rd orchestral record in his 12 album discography. (back to albums)