Description

The concept of the tuba as a noble and heroic instrument becomes the basis for the title of this work for high tuba, low tuba and marimba.  The work is a sonata in one continuous movement which is divided into three major sections.  The first (measure 1-183) is a rigorous exchange of ideas between the two tubas.  Section two (ms. 184-249) consists of a simple chaconne-like theme followed by a set of increasingly complex variations.  The last section (ms. 250-382) is a rowdy dance tune with shifting metrical accents.  The title of the work is further corroborated by a quote from Richard Strauss’ Ein Heldenleben.

Heroes owes its existence to the commissioning efforts of two important tubists:  Anne Jelle Visser, Solo Tuba, Zurich Opera Orchestra and Professor of Tuba at the Zurich Conservatory of Music and David Kutz, Solo Tuba, Netherlands Radio Kamer Filharmonie.  The work is to be premiered at the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival in the summer of 2006.

Duration: 9:30
Grade: V
Publisher: BoonesLick Press