Trek to the Summit

Description

Flute, Oboe, Flute 2, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bassoon, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Glockenspiel, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Tom-tom, Crash Cymbals, Percussion 2, Triangle, Suspended Cymbal — A brass fanfare based on an angular motive opens Trek to the Summit. This motive serves as the principal melodic material for the composition. The fanfare fades to a softer lyrical passage (m. 24). The woodwinds initially present the Andante theme that is derived from the principal motive but set in the Dorian mode. The composition turns to the major key (m. 60) for a tutti passage that is closely followed by a return to the minor mode. The percussion instruments usher in a Presto developmental passage (m. 85) that leads to the return of the opening fanfare (Maestoso). A brief coda (m. 117) contains a final tutti statement of the principal motive as the composition comes to an end.Trek to the Summit was commissioned in honor of Sam Berryhill by his wife in celebration of his retirement. Trek to the Summit takes all who listen on a journey to the top of the mountain. From the grand opening fanfare to the softer lyrical passage, this piece captures the excitement, confidence, and also moments of quiet reflection inspired by a long mountain trek. You will have the opportunity to reinforce dynamics, phrasing, and tone with your students. This work is a great concert piece for celebrating how far your students have come.