The New Music Ensemble at Grand Valley State University (Allendale, Michigan) takes inspiration from National Parks in the United States on its recording Dawn Chorus. In an ongoing project, the ensemble, under Director Bill Ryan, has commissioned over twenty composers to explore and “respond” to these incredible American treasures. This album features eleven of these new works by composers including Phil Kline, Molly Joyce, Patrick Harlin, Paula Matthusen, and Rob Deemer – all of whom visited the likes of Arches, Badlands, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National Parks.