Steel Driving Man

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Clarinet in Bb 3, Bass Clarinet, 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 1, Chime, Bells, Mallet Percussion 2, Xylophone, Marimba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Brake Drum, Snare Drum, Mark Tree, Shaker, Percussion 2, Bass Drum, Crash Cymbals, Mark Tree, Suspended Cymbal, Tom-tom, Gong — Steel Driving Man was composed in 2020 as part of a series of annual premieres for the University of Mobile High School Honor Band. Part of a multi-work series for wind band called “The American Legends,” this piece is based on the legend of John Henry. Despite being considered folklore, the story of John Henry appears to be based on a true story of a powerful steel-driving man who was part of an 1800s railroad tunneling crew. According to the legend, he was a former slave whose prowess was tested in a contest with a new steam powered machine, a contest that lasted up to 24 hours. John Henry won the contest, but died from the exertion. Various locations in West Virginia, Virginia and Alabama have been suggested as the historical site of the contest.Musically, John Henry’s name is a three-note motif played by the entire ensemble to begin the work, continuing as a recurring motif throughout. Bring that out whenever it occurs. There are a number of dramatic and sudden tempo and character changes throughout the introduction which need to be handled carefully. Beginning at m. 20, the band sings! This tune follows the character of a railroad work crew song. Enthusiasm is more important than vocal quality here. Measure 61 is where the contest between John Henry and the steel-driving machine begins. The tempo needs to be absolutely steady until directed to change with dramatic dynamics. Allow the layered percussion parts to drive the piece from here to its dramatic conclusion in m. 119. The piece returns to the work crew song and concludes simply, proclaiming both John Henry’s victory and sacrifice. This piece is based on the legend of John Henry. Despite being considered folklore, John Henry appears to be based on a true story of a powerful steel driving man who was part of an 1800's railroad tunneling crew. The music depicts the intensity and exertion of a legendary contest between John Henry and a new steam powered machine, which he ultimately won. A three-note motif represents Henry as the music moves through dramatic character and tempo changes, including a moment for the entire band to sing!

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