Description

Sonata for Brass Quintet was commissioned in honor of Paul and Greta Leighton by their loving family for the Gaudete Brass Quintet in 2007-2008.  The three movements of the work adhere to the classical “sonata” pattern of fast-slow-fast.  The first movement opens with a sprightly triadic theme which is passed to various members of the ensemble.  Following a brief development of that first idea, a second repeated-note theme is introduced.  A more extensive development of both ideas ensues followed by a recapitulation of the material from the beginning.

Movement two is introduced with a lyrical trombone solo.  In contrast, a slightly more animated B section, featuring short solos for each of the other members of the ensemble, follows.  The trombone returns near the end of the movement completing the ternary design.

The energetic third movement begins with the ensemble in unison.  A highly syncopated theme follows and becomes the recurring melodic idea for this jazzy rondo.  Contrasting material interrupts the rondo idea several times as the movement concludes in a burst of activity.

Duration: 12:00
Grade: V
Publisher: BoonesLick