Betty Zane, a young heroine of the American Revolutionary War, played a pivotal role in the defense of Fort Henry in 1782. During a Native American and British siege on the fort in Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia), the fort's ammunition ran low. Without hesitation, Betty Zane braved enemy fire, running over 60 yards to a nearby cabin to retrieve gunpowder. She made the perilous dash successfully, ensuring the fort's survival. Her courage and determination exemplify the spirit of the American frontier and have solidified her as a symbol of female heroism in the face of adversity during a critical chapter in American history.
The music acts as a kind of mini tone poem. The sweeping strings evoke Americana, buoyant brass denotes the sound of heroism, and defiant drums capture the fighting spirit of our heroine. Flying flutes are strategically placed throughout, as to be reminiscent of drum-and-fife music of the time. A hummable theme is developed in the piece that is both soaring and evocative of the great struggle for independence and freedom. A brief interlude featuring flute, glockenspiel and other woodwinds depicts the bravery that is found in the spirit of a 16-year-old girl fighting for what she believes in. Finally, all these different forces combine to culminate in a stirring finale.
R. Gross
