The title, KNOCKTURNE, was suggested by James Berlyoung, director of bands at Midview High School in Grafton, Ohio. Upon hearing the title with its unusual spelling, the composer immediately thought of the rhythm pattern he used when knocking on a door. This made the door bell and door knocker essential instruments and the work virtually wrote itself. It was first performed by the Midview Middle School Percussion Ensemble in March, 1989.