"Dr. Brandon
demonstrated extensive knowledge of effective compositional techniques
specific to my instrument and worked closely with me to produce a new
composition that was exactly what I needed--a strong piece with a touch
of Americana." Dr. Kenyon Wilson
American
Fantasy (2002) (Tuba and piano) - "American Fantasy" was commissioned
by Dr. Kenyon Wilson for a premiere at the Baku Music Academy in
Azerbaijan during his Fulbright Scholar residency. He wanted an
"American" sounding piece yet was concerned that his audience would not
be familiar with American folk songs. Even though "American Fantasy" is
loosely built on "America, the Beautiful", the use of jazz, folk style,
and descriptive titles give the piece an "American" flavor. The
composition is divided into three movements, "Declaration" representing
pride in being and American, "Introspection" representing thoughts of
what it means to be an American, and "Community" representing a sharing
of common values.
"Declaration" begins with two short cadenzas for tuba followed by a
short transition section for piano that leads into a quiet statement of
"America, the Beautiful" with jazz harmony and rhythms. A jazz waltz,
based on motives of "America, the Beautiful", follows the quiet
statement, bringing the proud "Declaration" section to a close.
"Introspection" is a slow section also built on motives from "America,
the Beautiful". It might be described as "Third Stream" influenced, as
it is a cross between a "classical" song and a "jazz" ballad. Lyrical
melodies, lush harmony and counterpoint combine to create reflections
on being an "American".
The last section, "Community", has a "hoe-down" feel. The melody is
once again derived from "America, the Beautiful". It is light-hearted
and humorous reflecting the joy we can share with family, friends, and
neighbors when we respect each other’s individuality and differences.
It is only in a world where freedom, responsibility, and respect of
human rights exists, that "true" community can thrive.
"American Fantasy" was completed on September 11, 2002 and is dedicated
to the ideals of this great nation.
Duration 9:00 Grade 4. This work is recorded by Kenyon Wilson and
Alan Nichols on the Emeritus label and
is
published by Tuba-Euphonium
Press.
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Click below to see the music scroll across the screen while listening to a MIDI file using the Scorch plug-in |
These excerpts are mp3 files |
| Community measures 1-40 | Community measures 1-40 |
