Blue Ridge Run

By Alan Lee Silva

Item Number: CF.YAS85

ISBN 9780825873409. 8.5 x 11 inches. Key: D major.

From the opening tremolos in the high strings and the punctuated bass notes in the low strings, Blue Ridge Run builds slowly, then sets off on a spirited ride through the American countryside. This rollicking new piece from Alan Lee Silva contains great rhythmic interest and wonderfully flowing melodic figures, completed by lush, open Americana harmonies. Duration: 2:11.
From the opening tremolos in the high strings and the punctuated bass notes in the low strings, Blue Ridge Run builds slowly, then sets off on a spirited ride through the American countryside. The form is AABCAAD-(Ending). Cellos and basses play with strength and power from the opening bar as the violin and viola tremolos crescendo. The Violin I ostinato at m. 9, keeps up the energy with its steady rhythmic pulse, setting up Violin II and Viola, as they play the first statement of the legato (A) melody at m.13. The Violin I ostinato starts in the foreground, and then fades to the background slightly as Violin II and Viola enter with the main tune. The full ensemble plays legato and expressively at m. 21 where Violin I carries the main melody and Violin II and Viola carry the counter-melody. The high strings are featured in m. 29-36 with staccato playing, followed by a low string feature at m. 37. The tempo slows at the maestoso section in m. 49, and the group plays smoothly and eloquently, with plenty of expression. Back to Tempo I at m. 57, the ensemble returns to the lively, marcato style established earlier in the piece. The exciting ending section at m. 57 is highlighted by quick-moving melodies in Violin I, double-stops on open strings in Violin 2, Viola and Cello, and extended scale passages in the low strings.