Chant and Ritual Dance

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — Chant and Ritual Dance is based on the declamatory motif stated in octaves by the entire string ensemble in mm. 1 and 2. It should be performed powerfully. The motif is next found in a lyrical, chant-like setting at m. 11. The allegro section beginning at m 26 announces the motif in its dance-like form. This section should be performed with energy. At m. 46 the motif becomes lyrical again. Great care with intonation will be needed to effectively perform the dissonant suspensions which occur here as the music glides through a circle of fifths. Finally, the transition beginning a m. 53 will provide young students with an opportunity to perform an effective crescendo. The recapitulation at m. 61 should have even more energy than the opening statement. Chant and Ritual Dance is based on the declamatory motif stated in octaves by the entire string ensemble at the start. The motif is then transformed into a lyrical, chant-like setting followed by an allegro section that presents the motif in a dance-like form. This excellent composition from composer Joseph Compello will be a great piece to show students how motives can be manipulated compositionally to create unity and variety within the same piece.

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