Big Sky Montana contains three pieces that imaginatively depict this western state. 'Land of the Shining Mountains' uses multiple key changes to display the majesty of Montana's various mountain ranges. Challenges for the student include large reaches in the left hand, a few accents, and syncopated rhythms. 'Song of the Sky' portrays birds with many quick melodic ornaments in the upper register. The graceful melody is relaxing, and accidentals and arpeggios add variety. In the final piece, 'Battle of Little Bighorn,' fast eighth notes and frequently changing meter create a lively mood, evoking a famous conflict between the US army and Native American tribes. An extended section of polychords creates dissonant, clashing harmonies, which capture the dramatic battle. The middle section, which remains rhythmic, has a more fluid feel. / Piano
SKU: CF.CY3129P
ISBN 9780825899669. UPC: 798408099664.
A positive force in the Montana music landscape, pianist Steven Hesla requested a new piano concerto from Maslanka, which could be played with better high school ensembles around the state. Maslanka wrote Concerto No. 2, also in five movements, each movement arising out of a backdrop of inspiration, to meet that request. Hesla recorded the concerto on Naxos with the Illinois State University Wind Symphony. See a YouTube performance by Uschi Reifenberg (pno.) and Sinfonisches Blasorchester Mannheim with Tobias Mahl conducting.
SKU: CF.CY3129F
ISBN 9780825899652. UPC: 798408099657.
SKU: BO.B.2642
SKU: BT.SOLDES1657
SKU: HL.50493741
DALLA SONATA QUASI UNA FANTASIA, OP. 27 N. 2 'AL CHIARO DI LUNA' - PER PIANOFORTE.
SKU: CU.EC1162
SKU: CU.EC933
SKU: CU.EC2650
