Commissioned by the Sun City (AZ) Concert Band, In the Valley of the Sun is composed in a three-part overture format opening with a rollicking and rhythmic Western-style theme. The slow middle theme musically depicts thebeauty of the Arizonadesert with a flowing, yet angular melody. In the third section, the Western flavor returns to draw the work to an exciting and driving conclusion. (Grade 3.5) Dur: 5:50