Tempus Fugit
Concert Band - Sheet Music

Concert Band - Grade 3

SKU: ML.013552070

Composed by Eric Swiggers. Full set. Molenaar Edition #013552070. Published by Molenaar Edition (ML.013552070).

Tempus Fugit was composed after being commissioned by Stichting Frysk Fanfare Festival on the occasion of the Open Nederlandse Fanfare Kampioenschappen 2019. The title is taken from a statement from the Roman poet Vergilius. It means time flies. The composition starts with a ticking clock. As time passes, more and more instruments are playing little repetitive motifs. Because time is elusive, it is for the audience initially not clear in which beat time this piece is being played. Time after all, cannot be caught. The introduction ends in an optimistic Carpe Diem theme, played by the entire orchestra. Carpe Diem which means seize the day, is often being used in combination with tempus fugit: Seize the day because time flies. After the theme of Carpe Diem, the ticking clock returns. Now as introduction for the hectic and busy life ahead of us. The Allegro agitato hereafter is a reflection of our fast and hectic society. This gives a rushed feeling. A seemingly thoughtless waltz theme interrupts this part in order to escape hectic and excitement. Unrest however remains audible and sensible. The Allegro agitato continues untill a furious eruption finalizes, it is enough. A calm part follows in an ambiance of reflection. In the distance we hear the echo of the theme of Carpe Diem that is taken over by the flugelhorn solo. The alto saxophone plays the waltz theme from the Allegro agitato, now without the disturbing elements. Hereafter the theme of Carpe Diem will be played once more by the entire orchestra. Seize the day. The composition ends as it started, with a ticking clock that does not stop. Time never stands still.