Search results for: 'Quartet for brass'

1. Chestnut
2. Kaleidoscope
3. III. Caprice

“Divertimento for Wind Quintet” is a moderately difficult, vibrant piece in three short movements. The piece features dynamic contrasts, syncopation, varied tonal colors, full instrument ranges, tonal clusters of harmony, and imitative motifs that pass among the instruments. The work is delightful to play and hear. It's suitable for college and professional players, and it’s an excellent tool for teaching advanced students more refined ensemble and musicianship skills.

The first movement, “Chestnut” (3:00), is an entertaining story in which all the instruments combine to tell an animated tale. “Kaleidoscope” (2:40), the second movement, includes continually changing harmonic patterns and varied dynamics that create a wealth of shifting musical textures. The third movement, “Caprice” (2:50), is a whim brimming with energetic playfulness that radiates from all the instruments.

The instrumentation throughout is standard woodwind quintet with no alternative instrumentation or doubling. Each section can be performed as a standalone concert or contest selection.

The Wind Quintet setting of this gentle rag honors the dignified character of Scott Joplin's compositional form, giving each of the five players a voice. Optional repeats lend program flexibility to the duration of the performance. “Searchlight Rag” was first published in 1907, and the title refers to Searchlight, Nevada, where friends of Joplin had ventured to go prospecting.