Swords of Evolution

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — The title of this piece was suggested by a middle school student. It seemed to fit the bold and aggressive nature of the music that I had written.The piece begins with and opening fanfare based on the main thematic material for the piece. This is followed by the first statement of the theme in the first violins punctuated by the other instruments. The theme is then repeated, this time with a more active accompaniment. The lower strings are then given an opportunity to play an augmented variation of the theme followed by developmental material that was first stated in measure 6 by the cellos and basses. The use of quintal harmony gives this an unsettling sound. This is followed by a fragmentation of the main theme with interplay between the upper and lower strings. The development material returns and builds to the climax of the piece, which is a full augmented statement of the main theme. The development material returns once for and then builds to an exciting conclusion.As with all of my pieces, I hope that you will adjust my suggested tempo and bowings to the needs and abilities of your students.It has been my pleasure to have the opportunity to write this piece. I hope that you and your students enjoy it and find it useful for your program.- Larry ClarkLakeland, Florida 2005 Your young string players will have lots of fun playing Swords of Evolution while working on their intonation and rhythm. With the use of gentle dissonance, tempo changes and solo opportunities, Clark has created a challenging work that will surely become a favorite piece in your group's repertoire.