Declaration in Blue

From Wind Repertory Project
Robert W. Smith

Robert W. Smith


General Info

Year: 2002
Duration: c. 2:20
Difficulty: II-1/2 (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Alfred Publishing Co.
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $57.00; (digital) - $55.00   |   Score Only (print) - $9.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
C Piccolo/Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Soprano Clarinet I-II
B-flat Bass Clarinet
E-flat Alto Saxophone
B-flat Tenor Saxophone
E-flat Baritone Saxophone
B-flat Trumpet I-II
Horn in F
Trombone
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion I-II-III, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Conga
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Hi-Hat
  • Marimba
  • Ride Cymbal
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Triangle
  • Xylophone (optional)


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Some of the most intriguing music combines elements of seemingly disparate styles of music. Here, elements of a classic overture are shaded with elements of the blues to create a thoroughly engaging work.

- Program Note from publisher


American music can be defined in many ways. However, the deep roots of jazz are America's own musical contribution to the world. Declaration in Blue celebrates that heritage by gently alluding to and borrowing from the jazz idiom. The blues scale, the dense harmonies, and rhythmic drive are all present. However, the piece never uses the swing eighth note, leaving the listener and ensemble firmly grounded in the concert band.

The composer write, " In these very trying times for our country, I thought it important to compose an uplifting true American statement – a statement of hope and certainty that will resonate through the performance of our most precious natural resource, our children." What follows is that statement, a Declaration in Blue.

Commissioned by School District No. 25, Pocatello, Idaho, and dedicated to the 2002 District Junior High School Honor Band in fulfillment of the "School to Work Mini Grant" for Mr. Richard Connerly, Grant Sponsor.

- Program Note from score


Media


State Ratings

  • Indiana: ISSMA JUNIOR BAND GROUP II
  • South Carolina: II
  • Tennessee: III
  • West Virginia: II


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources