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Pagan Dances

From Wind Repertory Project
James Barnes

James Barnes


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This work bears the designation Opus 70.


General Info

Year: 1987 / 1996
Duration: c. 13:00
Difficulty: V (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Southern Music
Cost: Score and Parts - $125.00   |   Score Only - $74.95


Movements

1. Ritual - 3:26
2. Mystics - 7:00
3. Master of the Sword - 3:40


Instrumentation

(Needed, please join the WRP if you can help.)


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

The Pagan Dances completes the cycle of four “primitive” works for symphonic band. I began with Visions Macabre in 1978, followed by Invocation and Toccata in 1980, and Torch Dance in 1984. All of these works employ highly dissonant harmonic combinations, repetitive melodic material, and driving rhythm to showcase the symphonic band’s immense power and dramatic color combinations. This suite is intended to portray an imaginary scene from prehistoric times as if it were a scene from a ballet. It begins with the entrance of the worshipers performing a ritual dance before their idol god. Mystics, or high priests, appear, evoking incantations and performing feats of sorcery before the worshipers. Suddenly, The master of the sword enters, performing a savage dance that culminates with his execution of a sacrifice on the high altar with his broadsword.

- Program Note by James Barnes


Commercial Discography

None discovered thus far.


State Ratings

  • Georgia: VI
  • Iowa: IV
  • Indiana: ISSMA SENIOR BAND GROUP I
  • Kansas: VI
  • Maryland: VI
  • New York: Concert Band VI
  • Oklahoma: V-A
  • South Carolina: I
  • Virginia: IV


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • Indiana University (Bloomington) Concert Band (Jason H. Nam, conductor) – – 1 October 2019
  • University of Louisiana Monroe Wind Ensemble (Derle R. Long, conductor) – 10 April 2019
  • Indiana University Symphonic Band (Eric M. Smedley, conductor) - 18 November 2014
  • North West Wind Ensemble (Sydney, Aus.) (James Brice, conductor) - 2014


Works for Winds by this Composer


References

  • Barnes, J. (1996). Pagan Dances: For Symphonic Band [score]. Southern Music Co.: San Antonio, Tex.
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