The Quest

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 1, Glockenspiel, Mallet Percussion 2, Xylophone, Mallet Percussion 3, Marimba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Triangle, Wind Chimes, Percussion 2, Bongos, Gong, Percussion 3, Suspended Cymbal, Tambourine — The Quest aims to take the listener on an epic musical journey. Beginning with a sweeping cinematic melody that is restated at the conclusion of the piece, the music transitions into an up-tempo section that features a catchy ostinato bass pattern, and gives your percussion section a chance to shine. The slower middle section features the woodwinds, before expanding the simple chorale into the rest of the band. The final section of the piece sees a restatement of the adventure theme before accelerating into a rousing conclusion that will make for an exciting concert closer.Make sure that all dynamic crescendos and decrescendos are very pronounced in the performance of the piece. Take care not to let the ostinato bass pattern overpower the melody. The slow section beginning at m. 61 may be conducted in a rubato style for maximum musical expression. The tempo at m. 103 may be taken faster or slower than the marked tempo according to the skill level of the band. Taking the listener on an epic musical journey, this modern composition with strong melodic lines, expanded percussion opportunities, and moments of musical reflection will challenge and develop your Grade 3 band’s expressive and technical abilities. Featuring several tempo changes, this is an excellent festival or contest programming choice that also works as a concert opener or closer.