Passacaglia for Band

SKU: HL.4008644

ISBN 9798350115024. UPC: 196288189695.

The Passacaglia is a set of instrumental variations based on an ostinato bass. Bach's Passacaglia and Fugue in C-minor for organ represents the pinnacle of what had been achieved in this compositional form at that time. In Franco Cesarini’s arrangement for large wind orchestra, the particularly careful interpretation of the original piece enables him to exploit all the sound colors at his disposal, and in this sumptuous guise Bach's work also takes on a grandiose dimension, albeit tinged with late-Romanticism. The exposition of the beautiful theme begins in the bass part, immediately creating a solemn and serious atmosphere which is accentuated by the intensely pathetic character of the first variations. Up to the tenth variation it remains confined to the bass, but in subsequent ones it also passes to the soprano and alto register. The integrity of the theme is also embellished with elegant arpeggios, in whose lower and higher extensions the theme can be distinguished. Towards the end it returns to the bass in an impressive thickening of the polyphonic texture that swiftly re-establishes the key of C-minor. The “Thema fugatum” which follows immediately does not constitute a Fugue in its own right, rather it is nothing but the twenty-first and most extensive variation of the Passacaglia. This time Bach uses only the first half of the theme, superimposing a rhythmic countersubject that considerably enlivens the entire development of the composition. The polyphonic discourse becomes increasingly dense, until the building tension peaks in a powerful “Neapolitan sixth” chord, followed by a sudden pause. This culminating moment then leads to the coda and final cadence on a bright C-major chord.

SKU: CL.012-1711-00

Alternating sections of regal brass and bright syncopation, this work combines the traditional passacaglia form with fresh modern harmonies. Interesting parts for every section and a fine offering from a creative composer.

SKU: CL.012-4302-01

This Bach masterwork for organ has been expertly adapted and arranged for band by Andrew Glover. Beginning with a bass ostinato, and followed by a series of variations that explore the full depth and sonority of the concert band, this work will showcase your mature ensemble and astonish audiences. This intense work will provide a rich musical experience for all! A truly superb work for band. Great music from one of the all-time great composers!

About Gems of the Concert Band

A series of transcriptions and other works in varying styles, representative of the programming of the Great American Classic Concert Band era of a century ago, as exemplified by John Phillip Sousa, Edwin Franko Goldman, Karl L. King, and Leonard B. Smith

SKU: SU.50015410

Score in C. Parts available on rental.Copyright 1978. Published by: Seesaw Music.

SKU: BC.101382

SKU: PR.145400310

UPC: 680160032075.

SKU: HL.49041749

ISBN 9790001113250.

Ceremonious suite based on well-known Gerrnan Christmas carols making modern use of old composition techniques. The pieces are easy and written in a practical way. They are suitable for brass ensembles from quintets to larger groups. The composer was a musician in Berlin schools.