Horizons Untold (fanfare for wind band)
Horizons Untold perfectly captures the excitement of possibilities unknown! In crafting this brief concert opener, the goal was to create an inspirational piece that resonates with performers and listeners in various ways. Some may envision a journey, gazing optimistically toward the horizon, while others may feel a sense of celebration. Additionally, the composition may evoke a patriotic sentiment in some. Regardless of personal interpretation, the soaring melodies, bold fanfares, and shimmering flourishes of the piece will captivate and energize the audience, setting the stage for an unforgettable concert experience!
Grade 5 | 1:54 | JWPepper Editor’s Choice Award 2023
Finale, from Symphony No. 3 (Organ)
“Finale” from Symphony No. 3 (“Organ”) by Camille Saint-Saëns is a vibrant and enthralling orchestral work, distinctively arranged by Evan VanDoren to maintain its original allure while enhancing playability. The symphony, composed in 1886 and instantly well-received, is considered one of Saint-Saëns’ most prominent compositions, commissioned by the Philharmonic Society of London. Notably, it was dedicated to Franz Liszt, a contemporary and mutual admirer of Saint-Saëns. This masterpiece, often perceived as a quasi-self portrait of Saint-Saëns, incorporates elements of sacred music, personal loss, and a triumphant transition from dark to light, culminating in the dazzling “Finale.”
This work was originally commissioned by Leander HS, from Leander, Texas, and premiered at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago.
Grade 5 | 8:00 | Selected to Texas UIL PML
March to the Scaffold, from Symphony Fantastique
“March to the Scaffold” from Hector Berlioz’s Symphony Fantastique is a vivid and dramatic musical piece, masterfully transcribed by Evan VanDoren for the modern wind ensemble. Infused with the tones of unrequited love and despair, the symphony tells the story of a lovelorn musician’s opium-induced visions, culminating in the fourth movement where he dreams of his own execution after murdering his beloved. This movement, emanating both somber and brilliant tones, is a testament to Berlioz’s ability to weave narrative into music, offering a thrilling auditory experience that echoes the tumultuous emotions of a tragic love story.
This work was originally commissioned by Vandegrift HS, from Austin, Texas, and premiered at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago.
Grade 5 | 5:00
Funeral March of a Marionette
“Funeral March of a Marionette” by Charles Gounod, transcribed by Evan VanDoren, is a whimsical piece originally conceived in 1872 as part of the “Suite Burlesque”. This playful parody, best recognized as the theme music for Alfred Hitchcock’s 1950s and 60s TV show “Alfred Hitchcock Presents”, tells the story of a marionette that dies in a duel, followed by a funeral procession briefly interrupted for refreshments before resuming its solemn march.
Grade 4 | 4:00 | ABC-Bandworld-WIBC Top 100 Award, 2023
Recent Comments