Repertoire (Spring 2025)
The director of the Upper Valley Community band carefully selects 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.
An American in Paris is a vibrant symphonic tone poem composed by George Gershwin in 1928. Inspired by his travels in Paris, the piece blends classical orchestration with the rhythmic energy and jazz influences of American music. It follows the story of an American visitor exploring the sights and sounds of the French capital, capturing the bustling streets, taxi horns, and romantic atmosphere. The music moves through playful, reflective, and exuberant moods, showcasing Gershwin’s signature style that bridges classical and popular genres. It remains a beloved work for its vivid storytelling and cross-cultural charm.
Composed for the American Bicentennial in 1976, Be Glad Then, America is a powerful work for chorus and orchestra by William Schuman. Drawing on 17th-century texts, the piece reflects on themes of national identity, unity, and gratitude. Rather than offering a traditional patriotic celebration, Schuman presents a thoughtful and sometimes intense musical meditation on America’s past and ideals. With bold harmonies and dramatic choral writing, the work invites both reflection and pride.
Composed in 1952, When Jesus Wept is a solemn, meditative canon based on a hymn by early American composer William Billings. The piece reflects on the grief of Christ at the death of Lazarus, capturing deep emotion with simple, expressive lines. Part of Schuman’s New England Triptych, it showcases his blend of early American music and modern harmony, creating a moving tribute to America's musical roots.
Originally a hymn and Revolutionary War song by William Billings, Chester was reimagined by William Schuman in his New England Triptych. This bold and rhythmic setting transforms the simple tune into a powerful statement of American spirit, full of strength, determination, and patriotic fervor. Schuman’s version is both a tribute to early American music and a striking example of 20th-century orchestration.
"Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" is a popular piece of choral music. It was composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is the 10th movement of the cantata Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben. It was written during Bach's first year in Leipzig, Germany. Bach did not compose the melody. That was written by Johann Schop. Bach only harmonized and orchestrated Schop's melody.
The third and final installment of the popular How to Train Your Dragon movie franchise again features an outstanding score by John Powell. The Hidden World uses a hint of the familiar earlier themes along with bold and dramatic new material. Based primarily on John Powell's own concert suite, here is a well-paced and effective medley for band.