American Band Journal #43

A Brass choir scored for four trumpets (optional horn), two trombones, baritone and tuba. The beginning is stated in the lower voices in a solemn fashion. The theme then presents itself in the upper voices in s straight forward manner followed by a key shift, giving over to a tuba solo with the middle voices supporting it in a flowing fashion. The next section becomes more rhythmic adding more voices for a full sound continuing on with more imitation amongst the voices building more agitation. The ensemble becomes increasingly chordal with some punctuating motives in the lower parts and then settles into a quiet resolve.

Three Plus Flutes for three soprano with opt. 4th/ob. with alto and bass. Opening with the upper two parts and then adding the lower voices gravitating to a block harmonic structure. The middle section starts with lower voices using a extraneous motif and stacked with upper voices doing the same in imitation. Then with more vigor all voices join in block harmonies until the final section where again imitation takes place until the final block harmonies take place.

Three Plus Flutes for three soprano with opt. 4th/ob. with alto and bass & piccolo. The first phrase is stated in the top voice, then adding the second voice, further adding the third voice until all voices are in agreement. The next section moves in a rather jaunty motion going through various meter changes. The middle section is stated with the tune in the top voice with accompaniment figures presented in a syncopated manner. All this happening in a modulated key. Further modulation takes place with a motive stated in the second voice, followed the third, then first until it settles into a final statement of kindness.

Scored for the woodwind section of a concert band arrangement, this Easter celebration is presented with strong traditional thematic statements, all the while being surrounded by exuberant obligati features.