Night Ride

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — The sky is completely black. But as you continue to look into the blackness you notice tiny stars everywhere. They emit no light but look like millions of diamonds. This is the settting forNight Ride an original composition which provides a magical and mysterious adventure for students. The music can create a story of its own – or the students can add details tothe drama.A haunting four note motive is stated in the introduction by the cello/bass under harmonics in the upper strings. This creates a mood which leads to the exciting Allegro section at m. 9. A pulsing bass line gets the wheels in motion for the exciting Night Ride. The haunting four-note motive is expanded by the 1st violins with a murmuring motive underneath.All instrument sections have melodic interest: 2nd violins and violas state the theme at m. 26. Celli and basses play a different version of the theme at m. 40. The short melodic statementsare always supported by a strong counterpoint.The murmuring figure (viola m. 6) requires a three-note slur but is very easy to execute. All sections have this “murmur;” mm. 35-36 would be the optimal place to have all studentswork on the slur together. Deborah Baker Monday’s first piece in the Carl Fischer catalog exemplifies her serious, intriguing and deep style that orchestra directors have grown to love.

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