Clock Tower

Description

Flute, Oboe, Flute 2, Clarinet in Bb, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb, Horn in F, Horn in F, Trombone, Trombone, Euphonium, Bassoon, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Xylophone, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Tambourine, Temple Block — Dating back to the 13th century, the clock tower was located in the center of a town and used by townspeople to hear the time through bells and chimes ringing out. There are clock towers all over the world and they are wonderful landmarks to towns and communities. This work begins and ends with the Westminster Chimes theme, which is used by many clocks and clock towers, including Big Ben, the famous clock tower in London.xa0xa0Clock Tower contains many essential musical and technical skills for a beginning level band piece. The tick of the clock mechanism is imitated by pitched woodblocks, and the main theme is based on ascending and descending scale patterns, reinforcing note-reading ability for the beginning student. There are layers of new countermelodies and contrasting sections with dynamics and legato passages, giving the students an opportunity to play in different musical styles. There is a low brass and woodwind feature and a section introducing eighth notes to the upper winds. The sound between the woodwinds and the brass are also important, but many woodwind passages are cued in the brass in case a beginning band might need extra players to help with the balance and blend. This gives the director the opportunity to experiment with these cues and add a few other instruments when needed.xa0 Clock Tower contains many essential musical and technical skills for beginning level bands. The ticking of the clock mechanism is imitated by pitched woodblocks and the main theme is based on ascending and descending scale patterns, reinforcing note-reading ability for the beginning student. Filled with melodies and countermelodies, contrasting sections, and use of diverse rhythms throughout all parts, this is a wonderful skill-building selection!

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