Pure Imagination (Latin Reimagining) - 2024

Originally written for Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971), “Pure Imagination” has long invited listeners to dream without limits. In this vibrant new arrangement for middle school orchestra, the familiar tune is reimagined through the lens of Latin rhythm, colorful harmony, and expressive collaboration.

The work was first created upon request for a friend—an orchestra director whose ensemble consisted primarily of students of Latin descent. Together, Hendon and his colleague sought to craft something both musically challenging and culturally resonant: a piece that students could see themselves in while exploring advanced concepts such as syncopation, chromatic melodic motion, and harmonic color.

Scored at approximately Grade 3.5–4, the arrangement introduces performers to cut time, tuplets, dotted rhythms, and the interplay of layered textures. Its auxiliary percussion—including claves, cow bell, guira, bongos, timbales, and cajon —enhances the rhythmic vitality, while the lush string voicings bring warmth and lyricism.

Multiple versions of this work exist to maximize collaboration across school programs: 1. A string orchestra version (Violin I & II, Viola, Cello, Bass) 2. A choral version featuring identical violin and vocal melodies with added lyrics 3. An expanded version with auxiliary percussion to complete the Latin groove

The result is a magical journey of learning, growth, and joy—a musical “Magic School Bus” ride through rhythm, melody, and imagination.