Defenders, The

The Defenders is cast in one continuous movement but with clearly defined sections of National conflict. Noble themes and stated animism depict the threat and mobilization of soldiers. Tensions mount as the trumpet calls and defenders prepare themselves for action.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Level: 5 | Duration: 10:00

Instrumentation
Piccolo
1st Flute
2nd Flute
1st Oboe
2nd Oboe*
Eb Clarinet
1st Bb Clarinet
2nd Bb Clarinet
3rd Bb Clarinet
Bb Bass Clarinet
Bassoon
1st Eb Alto Saxophone
2nd Eb Alto Saxophone
Bb Tenor Saxophone
Eb Baritone Saxophone*

1st Bb Cornet
2nd Bb Cornet
3rd Bb Cornet
1st Bb Trumpet
2nd Bb Trumpet
1st F Horn
2nd F Horn
3rd F Horn
4th F Horn
1st Trombone
2nd Trombone
3rd Trombone
Euphonium
(TC Baritone)
Tuba

String Bass*

Timpani
Percussion 1 [4 players] (2 snare drums, cymbals, bass drum, tenor drum, mark tree, suspended cymbal, anvil, tam tam, triangle)
Percussion 2 [2 players] (xylophone, vibraphone, glockenspiel, tubular bells)

Parts marked with an asterisk (*) are NOT ESSENTIAL, although their presence will obviously enable a fuller realization of the composer's intentions to be achieved.

Program Notes
The Defenders is cast in one continuous movement but with clearly defined sections. After an introduction we hear a noble theme with dark undertones evoking the emotions of "A Nation Under Threat." The music swells and becomes animated as we enter a state of "Moblisation." This section contains a sturdy, defiant march full of grim determination. The mood lightens and for a while we forget the conflict. However this reverie is terminated abruptly and, as thoughts of war return, we enter a state of "Red Alert."

Tension mounts as strident trumpet calls warn of an enemy sighting. The defenders prepare themselves for action as they face the ensuing "Enemy Attack." Sounds of guns are heard as the invaders are repulsed and, as an enemy aircraft is brought crashing to the ground, the raid is over and the defenders rejoice amid "Victory Celebrations."