On the Precipice (fanfare for concert band)
New for 2019
Typically while writing I usually have a title in mind, however this piece took more time to discover its meaning (even as a composer pieces sometimes have to 'reveal' themselves to me as I get to know them). To stand "on the precipice" could have many meanings for many individuals but for me it has a lot to do with approaching a difficult juncture in our lives from a perspective of hope - will that precipice result in disaster or will it empower us? This piece explores that juxtaposition of hope and fear.
The opening motif of 'On the Precipice' was initially conceived as the opening motif for a much longer work. However, the strong unison, in a register very playable for young musicians, made the motif an attractive possibility for a piece designed to be played by younger musicians. The opening motif is found throughout the work, often interrupting the lyrical sections; many lower pitched instruments are featured in this work.
The work begins somewhat in Bb minor, but then eventually transitions into Bb major with lyrical style. The opening in generally accented although not all accents should have space in between them (as often indicated). The more lyrical section should be fairly legato with exception of the recurring motif, which should continue to be accented.
The Meter is marked as 4/4 with a shift to 2/2 however the underlying quarter note pulse remains the same. Some teachers may find it easier to continue in 4/4 while others may find this a useful piece to teach cut time meter - either way, the pulse is designed to be half time right from the beginning.
Typically while writing I usually have a title in mind, however this piece took more time to discover its meaning (even as a composer pieces sometimes have to 'reveal' themselves to me as I get to know them). To stand "on the precipice" could have many meanings for many individuals but for me it has a lot to do with approaching a difficult juncture in our lives from a perspective of hope - will that precipice result in disaster or will it empower us? This piece explores that juxtaposition of hope and fear.
The opening motif of 'On the Precipice' was initially conceived as the opening motif for a much longer work. However, the strong unison, in a register very playable for young musicians, made the motif an attractive possibility for a piece designed to be played by younger musicians. The opening motif is found throughout the work, often interrupting the lyrical sections; many lower pitched instruments are featured in this work.
The work begins somewhat in Bb minor, but then eventually transitions into Bb major with lyrical style. The opening in generally accented although not all accents should have space in between them (as often indicated). The more lyrical section should be fairly legato with exception of the recurring motif, which should continue to be accented.
The Meter is marked as 4/4 with a shift to 2/2 however the underlying quarter note pulse remains the same. Some teachers may find it easier to continue in 4/4 while others may find this a useful piece to teach cut time meter - either way, the pulse is designed to be half time right from the beginning.