Repertoire (Fall 2024)
The directors of the Upper Valley Community band carefully select an assortment of pieces that challenges the abilities of the band and diversifies our repertoire. This program promises an eclectic mix of stirring music that showcases the band’s impressive range and artistry.
Crown Imperial by William Walton is a grand and triumphant march that exudes regal splendor and power. Composed in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI, the piece is filled with bold fanfares, sweeping melodies, and a rhythmic energy that builds to an exhilarating climax. Its rich harmonies and dynamic contrasts evoke a sense of pageantry and celebration, making it a popular choice for ceremonial events and concert performances alike. Walton's masterful orchestration lends the work both a stately presence and a lively sense of movement, capturing the spirit of a royal procession.
Peace Dancer by Jodie Blackshaw is a contemporary piece that blends musical expression with a deep sense of reflection and cultural respect. Inspired by indigenous dances and themes of unity and healing, the work invites listeners into an immersive soundscape of gentle rhythms, lyrical melodies, and evolving textures. Through carefully crafted harmonies and subtle dynamics, Peace Dancer encourages an atmosphere of introspection, invoking the spirit of peaceful togetherness and honoring diverse traditions. Blackshaw’s sensitive and thoughtful approach to composition makes this piece both emotionally resonant and universally accessible, creating a memorable experience for performers and audiences alike.
St. Louis Blues by W.C. Handy is a groundbreaking classic that helped define early jazz and blues. With its rich blend of ragtime rhythm, soulful melodies, and minor-key harmonies, the piece evokes a sense of longing and resilience. Originally composed in 1914, St. Louis Blues became one of the most popular and influential songs of the 20th century, inspiring countless interpretations across jazz, blues, and popular music. Its iconic, melancholy themes tell a timeless story of love and heartache, making it a powerful and expressive work that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Castle Walk by James Reese Europe is a lively ragtime dance piece that captures the energy and elegance of early 20th-century ballroom culture. Named after the iconic "Castle Walk" dance created by Vernon and Irene Castle, the piece showcases Europe’s rhythmic innovation and flair for blending African American musical traditions with popular social dance music of the time. With its upbeat tempo, syncopated rhythms, and spirited melodies, Castle Walk invites listeners to experience the joyful, vibrant atmosphere of early jazz and ragtime dance halls. Europe’s composition remains a joyful tribute to a unique era in American music and dance history.
Thoughts of Love by Arthur Pryor is a charming trombone solo that showcases both lyrical beauty and technical skill. Composed as a romantic ballad with rich, expressive melodies, the piece allows the trombonist to explore a range of emotions, from tender warmth to passionate intensity. Pryor, a renowned trombonist himself, filled Thoughts of Love with graceful phrasing and dynamic contrasts, making it both a sentimental favorite and a technical showcase. Its lush harmonies and flowing lines create a captivating, heartfelt experience that resonates deeply with audiences.
Vincent Persichetti’s Divertimento is a six-movement work that brilliantly explores contrasting moods, textures, and rhythms. The first movement, Prologue, opens with bold, dramatic chords that set a lively and spirited tone. The second movement, Song, shifts to a more lyrical, introspective mood with flowing melodies. In the third movement, Dance, syncopated rhythms and playful themes create a vibrant, whimsical atmosphere. The fourth movement, Burlesque, introduces lighthearted humor through brisk tempos and unexpected accents. Soliloquy, the fifth movement, returns to a slower, more contemplative feel with its expressive solo lines. The piece concludes with March, a dynamic, upbeat finale that brings the work to an energetic and satisfying close. Each movement offers a unique character, making Divertimento a masterful showcase of the ensemble’s versatility.
A Night in Tunisia by Dizzy Gillespie is a groundbreaking jazz classic that combines Afro-Cuban rhythms with bebop’s intricate melodies and harmonies. Renowned for its infectious energy and unique use of syncopation, the piece creates a vibrant, exotic atmosphere that evokes the spirit of adventure and innovation. Its iconic opening fanfare and dynamic shifts between fiery solos and sultry interludes make it a thrilling showcase of musical creativity. Widely regarded as one of Gillespie’s masterpieces, A Night in Tunisia remains a cornerstone of jazz repertoire, captivating audiences with its bold rhythms and timeless allure.
Manhattan Beach by John Philip Sousa is a lively and cheerful march that captures the essence of summer fun and seaside charm. Composed in 1893 to celebrate Manhattan Beach Park in New York, the piece is filled with bright melodies, spirited rhythms, and Sousa’s signature flair for dynamic contrasts. Its buoyant energy and playful character make it a quintessential example of Sousa’s ability to create music that is both accessible and uplifting. Manhattan Beach remains a favorite in the concert band repertoire, delighting audiences with its timeless sense of joy and celebration.