Sandhills Saga

Description

Flute, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Bells, Timpani, Percussion 1, Suspended Cymbal, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Triangle — Sandhills Saga was commissioned by the Aberdeen Middle School Band of North Carolina led by Neil P. McCrimmon. The composition opens slowly and quietly with a principal theme presented by the flutes and oboe. The theme is repeated by the alto saxophones and trumpet in canon with the flutes, oboe and clarinets. The head motive of the theme is repeated and imitated, sometimes in inversion, as the A-section comes to a quiet close. The auxiliary percussion instruments play an integral role in creating the delicate colors of the A-section. The trumpets introduce the contrasting "Alla marcia" section and then are joined by the alto saxophones for a presentation of a syncopated, martial version of the principal theme. The low brass take the lead, in canon with the upper woodwinds, for a repetition of this theme. A quieter (but still syncopated) section provides contrast and leads to the return of the march theme. The low brass lead once again as the upper woodwinds provide an arching countermelody. A brief coda brings the work to a lively close. Use the intertwining melodies of this composition to teach the important musical concept of the canon. Each instrument gets a moment to sing out during the development of an easy, yet musically challenging, melody. With a quiet introduction followed by brisk “alla marcia” section with a lively close, use this as a unique concert selection to educate your students and audience as well.