Pelican Dance

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Clarinet in Bb 3, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon 1, Bassoon 2, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Trumpet in Bb 3, Horn in F 1, Horn in F 2, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Trombone 3, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, String Bass, Mallet Percussion, Bells, Xylophone, Vibraphone, Timpani, Percussion 1, Shaker, Claves, Snare Drum, Triangle, Percussion 2, Suspended Cymbal, Hand Drum, Bass Drum — Pelican Dance was composed in 2022 as part of my annual commitment to create a piece to be premiered by our University of Mobile High School Honor Band. I had a beginning concept for a “dance” piece and was leaning toward something which was a little quirky, fun and not too serious. One day, during my regular commute across Mobile Bay, I noticed the pelicans, elegant birds in the air and water but awkward on land. I tried to imagine a pelican dancing and decided I had my mascot and theme.The opening motif, played in octaves by the whole ensemble in the first measure, is fundamental for the entire work. It is stated in some form at the beginning of each section, is the basis for the first theme and is even used as the bass line later in the piece. It should be clearly stated each time it appears.Performance considerations: Although there are contrasting moments in the work, the tempo should never waiver. It should remain brisk and consistent from section to section.Dynamic contrast is an important aspect of the compositional design and stylistic makeup of the piece. The subito dynamics, fp, etc., need to be almost startling.Percussion drives the energy of this composition to a strong degree, and it is probably the most fun section in the band for this piece. Covering those parts effectively is critically important. Quirky, fun, and not too serious, this dance-like composition was inspired by the composer noticing pelicans on his way to work! The opening motif played by the entire ensemble in the first measure is fundamental for the entire work. Stated in some form at the beginning of each musical section, it even appears as a bass line in the composition. Performed at one tempo throughout, this piece emphasizes essential dynamic contrasts and the various ways a theme can be developed in a composition. Percussion drives the energy of the composition, allowing your players to develop their skills on hand percussion. Enjoy the dance!

Preview Pages