Endgame

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — The “endgame” is the final stage of a game such as chess, bridge, or backgammon, when few pieces or cards remain. This is a piece full of spirit and zeal that describes the intensity of the last moments of an epic match or intense game. The piece opens with a mysterious-sounding chord that works to build suspense before the main melody appears. Dynamics should be exaggerated greatly, especially when the main theme is introduced. This motif should be played with a bold and confident sound from all sections, but especially from the cello and bass players. A slower, calmer section is introduced before the main theme and energy returns. This slower section should continue with the same overall feel of the piece while also following all dynamic markings and the sudden tempo change. This piece was written for and dedicated to my 6th grade orchestra teacher! We both happen to really love chess. The “endgame” is the final stage of a game such as chess, when only a few pieces or cards remain. This spirited piece describes the intensity of the last moments of an epic game. A mysterious-sounding opening builds suspense before the main melody appears, using heavy accents to drive the theme forward with rhythmic interplay among parts. All sections get a piece of the action, bringing the dynamic performance to a bold and confident conclusion.