A powerful and memorable work, commissioned in celebration of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial. Set in minor mode, it tells of the Mandan Indians (of what is now North Dakota), known as the People of the Willows. They hosted the Lewis and Clark expedition for 184 days as they wintered along the Missouri River. Their chief, Shahaka's promise to Lewis and Clark was, "If we eat, you shall eat. If we starve, you will starve. Our wish is to be at peace with all.".
