All aleatoric sections should be approached from an atmospheric standpoint. No single instrument should stand out, and all players should take their time with notated figures, being careful not to rush the musical flow. No two performers should play at the exact same speed. Waves was commissioned in honor of the retirement of Roger Wolfe, the director of bands at Rockdale County High School in Conyers, Georgia. The commission effort was spearheaded by his son and daughter, Brian and Stephanie, along with his wife Holly. It was made possible by the Rockdale County High School Band Boosters, family and friends. Waves is a symbolic, lyrical work that not only conjures images of the tranquility of the sea, but serves as a metaphor for the retirement of great teachers. Even though some of the most magnificent waves eventually roll onto shore, there will always be other waves that follow and continue the great miracle of nature. The legacy of great teachers will never be forgotten.