For 8 english horns
In 1999, Scottish video game designer and programmer Chris Sawyer developed and released the construction and business management game Roller Coaster Tycoon, igniting a passion for imagining interesting roller coasters and theme parks in young minds around the world. While some people used the game to torture and murder as many people as possible, most people playing the game were inspired to build the best, most creative theme parks and rides, maximizing guest happiness scenario after scenario. There were several sequels to the original game, from expansions such as Loopy Landscapes and Corkscrew Follies to Roller Coaster Tycoon 3: Soaked! and Wild!, but such as significant as the game true spiritual successor, Planet Coaster.
Sandbox Mode is a love letter to both the original Roller Coaster Tycoon and Planet Coaster, in honor of countless hours spent perfecting and refining creative visions of roller coasters never to be. It’s also deeply informed by the soundscapes of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, where most of the work was completed. A classic theme and variations for eight English horns (or 8 of any like instruments), each variation opens with a cadenza in the upcoming thematic style, allowing each member of the ensemble a moment to shine.
Sandbox Mode was premiered on July 24, 2024 at the 2024 International Double Reed Society Conference in Flagstaff, Arizona, by English hornists Aaron Hill, Mika Brunson, Taylor Crawford, Matthew Covington, Stephanie Patterson, JD Uchal, Victoria Lee, and Sara Renner.
Sandbox Mode is coming soon from Trevco Music Publishing.