Bazaar

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — A "bazaar" is an enclosed marketplace or street where various merchants and craftsmen sell their wares. The image of a crowded bazaar in a land far away was the inspiration for the piece. The variety of different people, cultures, and merchandise present in a bazaar allowed for a piece that has many different styles, moods, and characters (both humorous and serious). After the introduction, which represents the grand entrance of the bazaar, the main theme is presented by the violin 1 at m. 15. The meter changes frequently throughout the piece, but the eighth note stays constant. Be careful to subdivide the different time signatures carefully, as these changing meters occur. A melodic and flowing B-theme occurs at m. 37. After a varied restatement of both themes, new material occurs at m. 63. This C-section contrasts with the rhythmic activity thus far and should be played as legato and as sustained as possible. Be careful to time the divisi entrances and the pyramid-style chords in this section correctly, in order to keep the tempo secure. The rhythmic A- and B-themes return at m. 83 in a varied form, and lead to a climactic passage. The tempo changes that occur from mm. 105 to 114 are very slight and are open to the interpretation of the conductor. Feel free to move the tempo throughout this section using the markings as a guideline. The desired effect is one of pushing and pulling the tempo through this section. The introduc- tory material returns at m. 114 and brings the piece to a close. Hold on tight, this is a tour de force for more advanced groups. With a slew of contemporary compositional elements including mixed-meter, extended harmonies, and angular rhythms, this piece contains a fullness that composer George Sweet's works are known for. It's challenging, but the musical rewards abound.

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