BIG TOP MELODY SHOP (2023)

for concert band

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Big Top Melody Shop is a circus march in the traditional American march form. Not only do some of the chromatic harmonies reflect our associations with the big top, but there are even hints to Julius Fuçik's Entry of the Gladiators in the upper woodwinds in measure 47 (in augmentation). The optional slide whistle in m. 12 should be comedic in effect, perhaps performed toward the front of the stage so it's audible to the audience. The aggressive brass rhythms, chromatic woodwind runs and trombone glisses of the break strain (measure 75) should reflect an aerial performer finding their footing while prepping for a stroll on the high wire. The finale of the march comes with an optional molto ritardando before an intense accelerando before its conclusion.