7D7A3B08-63F9-48C4-AD4C-0955808DF1E6

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ID7D7A3B08-63F9-48C4-AD4C-0955808DF1E6
TitlecodeR00885
Title NameAn American Concerto (solo/ piano reduction)
Marketing CopyThis work is so entitled since its musical language strongly embodies what we have come to associate with typically "American" music, with definite rhythms and open and clear harmonic language. The listener might hear the three movements of this concerto as distinct elements from the American musical heritage - rock (I. A Burst of Energy), folk (II. A Reflection), and jazz (III. Another Stroll).
InstrumentationSolo Violin and Piano Reduction
Commission(not set)
Dedication(not set)
Program NotesThis work is entitled An American Concerto since its musical language strongly embodies what we have come to associate with typically 'American' music. The rhythms are definite and the harmonic language is open and clear.

The listener might hear the three movements of this concerto as distinct elements from the American musical heritage of rock, folk and jazz. Certainly these influences will be felt, or perhaps these categories merge into one (American) composer's style.

"A Burst of Energy" is the most rock-influenced movement of the concerto. Open harmonies of fourths and fifths predominate. These intervals structure the melodic phrases as well, but the rhythms border on jazz. The introduction of many players through short solo passages is also a jazz-influenced technique. Throughout this brief movement, energy lurks within the raw sonorities.

"A Reflection" speaks in the language of folk music with a C Major melody in the solo violin, but the melody is framed by blurred background textures to add depth. On occasion, the violin blurs its own lines as the melody shifts to the orchestra. Often the soloist emerges in unaccompanied cadenza passages. Freedom -- a flexibility of tempo -- is important.

"Another Stroll" is and easy-going jazz 'excursion' for an adventurous violinist! Personality and humor may accompany the strolling soloist on this short trip around the block.

Gwyneth Walker
Title Brand2
Year Composed1995
Copyright Number(not set)
Copyright Year(not set)
Duration15
Ensemble Size2
Date Created2008-10-31 20:33:04.000000
Date Updated2025-09-30 20:33:04
Inhouse Note(not set)
Bsc Code(not set)
Text Author(not set)
Premier Performance Memo(not set)
Recording Credits(not set)
Review(not set)
Awards(not set)
Title Category10
Title MovementsI. A Burst of Energy
II. A Reflection
III. Another Stroll
Title Grade(not set)
Set Series ID(not set)
Title Instrument Category TextViolin
Title Sub Category Text(not set)
Title Sub Category99
Title Instrument Header56
Title Grade Text(not set)
Clean Urlan-american-concerto-r00885