Floating Clouds

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion 1, Bells, Mallet Percussion 2, Chime, Timpani, Percussion 1, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Triangle — A brief introduction sets the mood for this hauntingly beautiful piece. As gentle breezes begin to blow on the surface, the clouds above begin appear in an array of different formations. The clouds float slowly from east to west, as if in an Impressionistic painting. This is one of nature's beautiful settings, and one can seemingly follow the clouds for hours.From a young player's vantage point they must confidently play the intentional dissonance on the third beat of measures 10, 14, 42 and 46. Once they get used to the sound it should become an “enjoyable dissonance.” In measures 25 to 27, balance the flutes and clarinets so the volume level is consistent between both parts. In general, the piece should be performed at a very relaxed pace, but a disciplined steady beat will be necessary to keep the sixteenth notes even and relaxed at measures 29 through 34. The final chord is a Bb major 7, and the clarinets and alto saxes should be equal in volume before the gradual fade. This hauntingly beautiful piece introduces performers to intentional dissonance and other characteristics of impressionistic music. Performed at a relaxed tempo opportunities abound for technical development of a lighter sound, listening for balance, sixteenth note runs, and advanced dynamic shadings. With delicate percussion throughout, this composition will develop many of the musical shading techniques your performers will need before tackling more advanced compositions.