1861

a hymn fantasia for concert band
(2004)
Duration: 5'
INTERMEDIATE

Commissioned by:
Center High School of Kansas City, Missouri, Amy M. Knopps, director

2Fl, Ob, 3Clar, BClar, Bsn(opt.), 2ASax, TSax, BSax, 3Trpt, 2Hn, 3Trb, Bar, Tba, Timp, 5Perc (Glock/ Vibr/ Mar/ TubBells/ Crot/ 3Trgls/ SusCym/ Piatti/ SD/ BD/ MTree)

Distributed by Hal Leonard Cororation. Performance set available for sale from your favorite music reseller.

1861 is a lyric hymn-fantasia for concert band, accessible to all levels of high school ensembles, and based on the beautiful 19th-century Anglican Hymn Lead Me, Lord (written in 1861 by Charles Sebastian Wesley). I was very attracted to that work's gorgeous line above biting harmonies and striking counterpoint, so the hymn itself provides the work's pillars: first presented soloistically, then with dramatic full-band tutti, and finally through evocative humming—all framed by choral textures and colorful improvisitory accompaniment. The work is dedicated to the commissioner, Amy M. Knopps and Center High School of Kansas City, Missouri.

World premiere March 22, 2004

Download program note.

Recorded on:

RECENT PERFORMANCES

Iowa All-State Music Camp Black Band, Hancher Auditorium, The University of Iowa, Ken Thompson, conductor - Jun 14 2008

Gatesville High School Honors Band, Gatesville High School Auditorium, Gatesville, TX, - May 22 2008

Metropolitan Atlanta Youth Wind Ensemble, Kell High School, Marietta, GA, - Mar 18 2007