Emperata Overture (flex)

From Wind Repertory Project
Claude T. Smith

Claude T. Smith (arr. Joseph Earp)


Subtitle: For Flexible Ensemble


General Info

Year: 1964
Duration: c. 7:35
Difficulty: IV (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Claude T. Smith Publications, through C.L. Barnhouse
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $85.00   |   Score Only (print) - $10.00


Instrumentation (Flexible)

Full Score
Part 1

  • Flute
  • Oboe
  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • B-flat Trumpet
  • Violin

Part 2

  • Flute
  • Oboe
  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • E-flat Alto Saxophone
  • B-flat Trumpet
  • Violin

Part 3

  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • E-flat Alto Saxophone
  • B-flat Trumpet
  • Horn in F
  • Violin
  • Viola

Part 4

  • Bassoon
  • B-flat Tenor Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Euphonium
  • Horn in F
  • Cello

Part 5

  • Bassoon
  • B-flat Bass Clarinet
  • E-flat Baritone Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Euphonium
  • Tuba
  • String Bass
  • Cello

Timpani
Percussion I-II-III, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Bells
  • Chimes
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Wood Block


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

This first published work of Claude T. Smith was released in 1964. Over the ensuing years it has become the standard of comparison in concert band literature. The mixed meter along with the lyrical freshness typical of Smith ushered in a new era for composers writing for concert band. Emperata Overture is simply a "must" for every working band director.

- Program Note from publisher


Emperata Overture opens with a fanfare-like statement by the brass section accompanied by percussion in the background. The main theme is then stated by the clarinets with a rhythmic brass background in 4/4 meter, but occasionally a 7/8 meter separates phrases. The middle section presents a lyrical statement of a new theme by a flute soloist followed by reiterations of the theme in various sections of the band as well as by the full band. The ending is highlighted by a change of key and a restatement of themes, making a very exciting finish.

- Program Note from Program Notes for Band


Emperata Overture was premiered as Overture for Winds and Percussion by the Center High School Band (Kansas City, Mo.) at contest in Warrensburg, Mo., in the spring of 1964. Emperata Overture had its Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic premiere on Dec. 18, 1964, by the University City (Mo.) High School Band in Chicago, IL.

- Program Note from score


Media

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


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • Eastern Oklahoma State College Concert Band (Wilburton) (Brian T. Harris, conductor) - 25, April 2023
  • Modesto (Calif.) Junior College Symphonic Band (Erik Maki, conductor) - 29 November 2021


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources

  • Smith, C. (1964). Emperata Overture [score]. Wingert-Jones Music: Kansas City, Mo.
  • Smith, Norman E. (2002). Program Notes for Band. Chicago: GIA Publications, pp. 546-547.