Program Notes

Comin' for to Carry Me Home

Mike Donovan, composer

Comin' for to Carry Me Home, composed by Major Mike Donovan, is a rhapsody based on the theme "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." Developed in variation form, the piece places the original gospel theme in a variety of styles including "classical jazz" and swing. Mr. Donovan was inspired to write this piece when he played with the 567th Air Force Band for the homecoming ceremonies for Gulf War soldiers and airmen at Westover Air Force Base. He writes, "I came away with a haunting and repeated theme: home, coming home, longing to come and be home." Major Donovan retired from the Air Force Band program in 2002 after 30 years of service in positions as trumpet instrumentalist, staff arranger, and Commander/Conductor. Major Donovan was a member of the Concord Band French horn section from 1985-1995. He is currently Director of Fine Arts in Saugus.

—the composer

INDEX