Popocatepetl

Description

Piccolo, Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe 1, Oboe 2, Clarinet in Eb, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Clarinet in Bb 3, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon 1, Bassoon 2, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Trumpet in Bb 3, Horn in F 1, Horn in F 2, Horn in F 3, Horn in F 4, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Bass Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Timpani, Agogo Bells, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Crash Cymbals, Percussion 3, Timbales — Popcatepetl, “Smoke Mountain” in Aztec, is a dormant volcano which the Mexican people affectionately call “POPO.” This dormant volcano in Mexico is on the boundary between the states of Mexico and Pueblo.In 1921 Popocatepetl belched smoke and gas for several months. Since then is has occasionally emitted the smoke and sulfurous vapors that earned its Aztec name.This suite is my musical impression of the Aztec volcano. The piece is divided into three scenes.The first scene, "Prologue," is the first impression formed when you first come upon the volcano. The emotions range from fear to excitement to respect for nature. This scene should be played with spirit and every rhythmically.The second scene, "Ballad." represents my feelings after the initial emotions have faded. One is quickly relaxed by the beauty of the volcano and its surroundings. This scene is scored in a dance-band style with lush sounding harmonics. This section of the composition should be played very slowly and with a relaxed feeling.The third scene, "Introduction and Samba," is the emotion of joy utilizing Latin rhythms. This scene takes advantage of all of the color and rhythms associated with Mexico. "Samba" opens with a fanfare which is the main theme on which the whole scene is developed. This section should be played very crisply and rhythmically.Particular attention should be paid to all of the dynamic expressions even though the scoring will in most cases achieve dynamic changes. This suite of three short movements depicts Popcatepetl, a dormant volcano in Mexico. Useful for developing understanding of this form, the composition includes overture, ballad, and Latin styles. Opportunities abound for teaching the concepts of dynamic contrast, balance between sections, and rhythmic development. There are several short solos, but most of the composition works on the development of full-ensemble skills. Although the movements can be performed as stand-alone selections, the entire suite is less than 6 minutes in length.

Preview Pages