Thrill Ride

From Wind Repertory Project
Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages


General Info

Year: 2019
Duration: c. 2:15
Difficulty: I (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: FJH Music Co.
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $50.00; (digital) - $50.00   |   Score Only (print) - $6.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
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
String Bass
Timpani
Percussion I-II, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Bells
  • Brake Drum
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Ratchet
  • Snare Drum
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Triangle
  • Xylophone


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Fear, anxiety, adrenaline, and a sheer rush of excitement all take center stage in this musical depiction of a roller-coaster ride. As many weary riders know, there is a certain amount of anxiety that people feel when waiting in line and hearing people scream. The opening slow section captures that feeling and builds as the rider gets closer and closer to the front of the line. Percussion simulates the lift hill (the mechanism that pulls the cars up the initial hill) before the ride "officially" begins and riders race down the first hill and into a series of drops, turns, and loops.

In my own experience, there always come a part of the ride when I am no longer terrified, but start to feel exhilarated and smile. This moment occurs at measure 32, when riders like me finally start to appreciate the rush of wind and the absolute thrill of the ride.

Suddenly the brakes slam on and the ride slows down immensely, but a final musical moment reminds the listener of the excitement they just experienced.

- Program Note from composer


Thrill Ride was commissioned by the Veterans Elementary School Band (Ellicott City, Md.) and their conductor, Tim Viets.

- Program Note from score


Commercial Discography

None discovered thus far.


Media


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources