The Spirit of Christmas
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SKU: A0.750056
By Bradley Sowash. By Bradley Sowash. Arranged by Bradley Sowash. Christmas. Score and parts. 310 pages. Bradley Sowash #431561. Published by Bradley Sowash (A0.750056).Semi-finalist in the American Prize for Orchestral Composition!
Evokes the seasonal emotions many of us experience on the annual journey from late Fall through Christmas Day with parallels to the symbols associated with candles on the advent wreath. Musically, it integrates traditional chamber orchestra (no low brass or percussion) with the improvised stylings of a jazz trio (piano, bass and drum set) in a quasi concerto format with optional cadenzas for trumpet and cello.5 sections – 22 minutes total (Sections can also be performed individually.) Chamber Orchestra or larger: 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, 2 Clarinets in Bb, 2 Bassoons, 2 French Horns, 2 Trumpets, Violins I, II, Violas, Cellos, Contrabasses; Optional: Jazz Trio – Piano, Bass and Drum Set
1. Fall Mood 4:53 Changing leaves, pumpkins and gourds illuminated by golden slanting light set the scene. Though nature is winding down, for many it’s an optimistic new beginning. Late autumn brings a whiff of colder air hinting towards winter.
2. Advent 5:00 This reworking of the 12th century Advent hymn, O Come Emmanuel, connects us with the long history of this time of waiting by referencing medieval church bell towers, solemn drums and ancient harmonies before moving into a more contemporary interpretation.
3. Traditions 3:20 The excitement of preparing for the holidays is reflected in the fiddle-like strains of the string section. Woodwinds and brass follow with passing wisps of favorite hymns and carols. As the deadline draws nearer, our happy anticipation becomes a bit tarnished by the frenetic pace.
4. Serenity 6:15 A solo cello announces that, ready or not, Christmas Eve has arrived. Our hearts are again filled with peace and wonder on this Silent Night. A triple cadenza hints at tomorrows excitement.
5. Celebration 2:53 Christmas Day unreservedly gifts us with the joy and majesty of the season so that even Herald Angels Sing.
COMMENTS:
The whole work is quite lovely. Happy we get to perform it!! - S.B (1st cello)
The orchestra really enjoyed your presence and playing tonight. I could see it on their faces. Thank you for giving my folks an enjoyable evening! – K.M. (Personnel Manager)
You’ve got a winner! One of my "piano ladies" and I attended your concert today at Otterbein. Your composition was original, approachable, tuneful, loved the chords, varied, told your story and was great fun! You should be very proud. - C.C. (listener)
I wanted to let you know that your piece [Advent] was enthusiastically received by the orchestra, audience, and the chorus. It was a true pleasure to conduct it. – Michael D. Poulos, Chicago Bar Association Orchestra
I had the pleasure of hearing the piece played twice… I am not musically trained and so cannot really tell you exactly why the arrangement was so moving, but for me it was the highlight of both concerts. – Rebecca Burlingham, Co-Chair, CBA Chorus.
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