Colossus

Colossus depicts the epic final battle between a lone hero and an ancient, colossal humanoid construct. For the video game aficionados out there, think the aptly named Shadow of the Colossus. The music begins with the hero entering the mysterious sanctum of the colossus and witnessing the ancient monstrosity rising from the earth. The hero quickly retreats to strategize their attack. Shortly after, the battle commences. Though the hero fights courageously, they are no match for the might of the colossus. In a moment of solemn reflection, the hero realizes that the only way they can defeat the colossus is to make the ultimate sacrifice. In one final stand, the hero uses all of their might to deal the finishing blow to the ancient being, yet at this moment the colossus mortally wounds the hero as well. The enormous construct comes crashing down, lying in ruin and serving as the tomb of the lone hero.
At the time of writing these program notes (Feb. 2026), I plan to expand this into a multi-movement piece depicting the greater story of the hero and the land they are tasked with protecting. The theme present in the horns and trumpets at the beginning of Colossus will serve as the hero’s theme throughout the larger work, and other motifs present in this piece will be used to tie the entire musical narrative together.
Colossus was written for and premiered by Dr. Jeff de Seriere and the 2026 SCSBOA High School Symphonic Band on February 1st, 2026.