Free

Written as a memorial, Free is intended to be an uplifting expression of life with the numerous ascending figures throughout the evolving first half of the piece and the forward momentum of the exciting second half. Solos for trumpet and oboe give ample opportunity to showcase the talents of individual students.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Level: 3 | Duration: 6:35

Instrumentation
Piccolo
Flute 1/2
Oboe 1/2
Clarinet in Bb 1
Clarinet in Bb 2/3
Bass Clarinet
Bassoon 1/2
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet in Bb 1
Trumpet in Bb 2/3
Horn in F 1/3
Horn in F 2/4
Trombone 1/2
Trombone 3
Euphonium
(Baritone T.C.)
Tuba

Timpani
Percussion 1 (chimes, xylophone)
Percussion 2 (suspended cymbal, tambourine, crash cymbals)
Percussion 3 (triangle, snare drum)
Percussion 4 (bass drum)

Program Notes
Commissioned by the Gateway Music Association
In Memory of Joey Ansberry

The technique of paraphrase – borrowing musical materials (especially popular songs) from the past and elaborating on them – is a rich musical tradition. Certain musical ideas in this composition have their source with the rock group Chicago’s song of the same name. The ascending and descending interval of a 3rd that figures prominently throughout the composition comes from the song’s chorus. Rhythmic motives, especially the four repeated sixteenth notes from the verse, are used liberally throughout. The melody in the middle section is motivically related to the instrumental bridge, and the ascending scale patterns are derived from the instrumental accompaniment in the second chorus. While these connections are not meant to be heard as direct references, they were influential in the compositional process.

Joey liked Chicago, jazz, biking, cars, had a loving family and many good friends. All things that make the idea of Free a fitting remembrance. This composition is intended to be an uplifting expression of life.

- Greg Danner