Search results for: 'Quartet for brass'

with Piano

HVATI was commissioned by acclaimed Norwegian hornist Froydis Ree Wekre for the renowned Norwegian tuba soloist Øystein Baadsvik. The title is Old Norse for "motivator" or "catalyst". This work was inspired by "hvati" with its vigorous energy and stimuli; instruments initiate movement and change. The piece was also informed by having had the special opportunity to meet with Øystein in Trondheim, Norway, thanks to Froydis Ree Wekre.

The form is a loose ABA structure containing several primary themes that undergo variation and spark propulsive rhythms. A central lyrical section provides a momentary calm; references to earlier material eventually gain momentum and propel the work forward to its close.

The composer wishes to thank Froydis Ree Wekre for her generosity and the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation of New Mexico for providing invaluable time and space to compose this work.

With piano

This three movement work is a serious challenge for any college or professional performer

From Lawrence Wolfe: I recently was given a wonderful piece of 'composer' advice: 'write what you want to hear.'

I refined that advice slightly to: 'write what you want to hear Mike Roylance play.' Mike does it all, from providing a foundation for the brass section, to incredible pyrotechnics to turning a phrase with beauty and grace. I used a variety of pitch organizing techniques, but they were all a means to create something that would pay tribute to a great musician. I composed the piece starting with the third movement, so as I worked on the first and second movements I knew where I was headed and took the liberty of providing 'hints' of what was to come.

The piece was premiered in Lenox, MA the summer of 2016.