Afternoon Games

Description

Piccolo, Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Clarinet in Bb 3, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Trumpet in Bb 3, Horn in F 1, Horn in F 2, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Trombone 3, Euphonium, Tuba, String Bass, Timpani, Percussion 1, Vibraphone, Percussion 2, Marimba, Percussion 3, Glockenspiel, Tambourine, Vibraslap, Percussion 4, Snare Drum, Triangle, Percussion 5, Tambourine, Suspended Cymbal — OLD SETTLERS' PICNIC is gratefully dedicated to the Oregon High School Orchestra (Oregon WI), directed by Leyla Sanyer, who commissioned the work.The 4-movement piece is based on a photo and a historical event that took place in this area of Wisconsin during the 1890's, detailing a festive day-long celebration honoring the settlers who arrived in Madison County, during the early 1800s. The celebration consisted of a morning parade, an early afternoon filled with games, an evening dance, and a gathering under the stars at night while tales were told of the early experiences, of tornadoes, and bear attacks, and the hard work of carving out a life in a brand new land. OLD SETTLERS’ PICNIC is a is a four-movement suite for Band by Eric Ewazen, arranged by Virginia Allen; each movement is published separately. Composed with high school performers in mind, the suite was inspired by an 1890s photograph and descriptions of a Wisconsin town’s “Old Settlers” celebration. AFTERNOON GAMES are depicted with a Vivace scherzo in 6/8. The running and skipping leads to an extended fugue for a copycat game before returning to the opening theme.