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Sparks

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Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages


General Info

Year: 2007
Duration: c. 3:50
Difficulty: III (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: FJH Music Company, Inc
Cost: Score and Parts - $65.00   |   Score - $10.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
Flute I-II
Oboe
Bassoon
Bb Soprano Clarinet I-II
Bb Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone I-II
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Trumpet (in Bb) I-II
Horn in F
Trombone I-II
Euphonium
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion I-II-III-IV-V, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Cymbals (crash and suspended)
  • Glockenspiel
  • Marimba
  • Snare Drum
  • Triangle
  • Tubular Bells
  • Vibraphone


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

This magical work depicts how incredible things happen with just a small spark – whether it is a spark of the imagination or a tiny spark that becomes a magnificent fire. A tapestry of sounds is woven throughout the woodwinds and percussion as brass enters with bold fanfares to open the work. A lyrical middle section at the same tempo keeps the energy moving as the piece eventually drives toward a riveting finish. The work changes character several times as it explores various aspects of its title. However, despite its multifaceted form, it also seeks to show the seamlessness of these ideas, indicating the presence of a universal spark. The piece is essentially a metaphor that attempts to reveal the true power of even the smallest of actions or events. It reminds us that we are all capable of making a difference, no matter how insignificant we think we are.

Sparks was commissioned by the Carl Sandburg Middle School Bands, Alexandria, Virginia, Charlie Burts and Joe La Brie, directors, dedicated to Donna Pasteur.

- Program Note from publisher


Commercial Discography

None discovered thus far.


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • Texas Tech University (Lubbock) Concert Band (Sarah McKoin, conductor) – 26 March 2018
  • University of Kansas (Lawrence) University Band (Sharon Toulouse, conductor) – 20 February 2017
  • Bel Air (MD) Freshmen Band (Cornelius A. Young, conductor) - 19 May 2016
  • Gwynn Park High School Concert Band (Brandywine, MD) (Cornelius A. Young, conductor) - Spring 2013


Works for Winds by this Composer


Resources

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