Commence!

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Clarinet in Bb 3, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Trumpet in Bb 3, Horn in F 1, Horn in F 2, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Bells, Chime, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbal, Tam-Tam, Triangle, Tambourine, China Cymbal, Cabasa, Mark Tree — Commence! was commissioned by the Lynden High School Class 2017-2019 and the Lynden, WA Community, and is dedicated to Steve Herrick in celebration of his retirement. Mr. Herrick and I first collaborated on a commission in 2006, and I was immediately taken by the community and the music program in Lynden. It is truly one of the most beautiful places in the country and full of musical inspiration at every turn. This piece is a loving tribute to Mr. Herrick and his amazing contribution to the students of Lynden for over thirty years. The music begins with a spirited section oscillating between 6/8 and 2/4 time. It should maintain a pulsing feeling throughout. The main melody appears at m. 25 and has a lilting, reminiscing quality to it. After some further development, it moves to a B-section at m. 41 with some warm brass passages. The woodwinds should soar over the top with their counter line. The lower voices take over the melody at m. 59. The harmony becomes more discordant at m. 71 with passages trading between the brass and woodwinds. This tension releases into a slow section that features a flowing, heartfelt melody. This builds to the big moment at m. 112. The timpani ushers us back to the 6/8, 2/4 section. The melody is now accompanied by some flowing counterpoint at m. 153 which leads to the B-section again at m. 169. This time the woodwinds take the lead and the brass provide the counter line. A final big moment at m. 194 is the culmination and high point of the composition. A brief fast section puts a bow on the piece for a rousing finale. A driving composition from Sean O'loughlin,Commence!begins with a spirited theme that oscillates between triple and duple meter. After developing into a heartfelt lush brass chorale, the lilting theme returns again. The composition concludes with a dramatic return of the B theme and a rousing finale. A beautiful piece,Commence!is astrong choice for any contest or festival.

Preview Pages