Description
Written for the 2023 Australian Inclusive Composition Award
** SPECIAL MENTION - DIVISION 3 **
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Duration 5:40min
The Monotremes, which include only the platypus and four species of echidna, all endemic to Australia, are egg- laying mammals. Their eggs are kept inside the body for much longer than those of birds or reptiles, and the puggles (hatchlings) lap milk from pores in the mother’s skin. These strange animals probably evolved from reptiles before other mammals.
The Echnida, or Spiny Ant Eater, can sometimes be seen stoically waddling along, and when approached will curl up or dig itself in, leaving only its spine covered back exposed as a deterrent to predators. The echidna has a long beak-like snout, which it uses, along with strong claws, to rip open termite mounds and fallen logs. It feasts on termites, ants, beetles and other small insects using its long sticky tongue. - Fran Griffin
Instrumentation: Piccolo, Flute 1 2, Oboe, Bassoon, Contrabassoon, Eb Clarinet, Bb Clarinet 1 2 3, Bass Clarinet, Alto Sax 1 2, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Horn in F 1 2 3 4, Bb Trumpet 1 2 3, Trombone 1 2, Bass Trombone, Euphonium BC & TC, Tuba, Timpani, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbal, Tam-tam, Crash Cymbals, Triangle, Tambourine, Rain Stick