Destination Cincopation

As the title implies, Destination Cincopation is a rhythmically driven work that explores the time signatures 5/4, 3/4, and 4/4 and all of the possible rhythmic divisions therein. Catchy, soaring melodies round out this rousing piece for concert band.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Level: 3 | Duration: 5:30

Instrumentation
Flute
Oboe
Bassoon
Bb Clarinet 1
Bb Clarinet 2
Bb Bass Clarinet
Eb Alto Saxophone
Bb Tenor Saxophone
Eb Baritone Saxophone

F Horn
Bb Trumpet 1
Bb Trumpet 2
Bb Trumpet 3
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Euphonium
Baritone T.C.
Tuba

Timpani/Triangle
Percussion 1 (Snare Drum, Congas, Slapstick)
Percussion 2 (Bass Drum, 4 Concert Toms)
Percussion 3 (Suspended Cymbal, Crash Cymbals, Vibraphone)
Percussion 4 (Cabasa/Shaker, Large Woodblock, Castanets)
Percussion 5 (Tambourine, Triangle, Claves, Small Woodblock)
Percussion 6 (Bells, Bongos)

Program Notes
Destination Cincopation is subtitled “a celebration of the preoccupation with the demonstration of the manipulation of complex musical notation.” That really says it all. Doesn’t it? Aside from the obvious notion that there is a great deal of syncopation utilized in both the melodic and accompanying figures throughout the piece, there is also an occasional intentionally uncomfortable rhythmic moment. Several times throughout the piece a great effort is made to cloud and obscure the rhythmic groupings of the melody and harmony. Often these forces will work against one another to create tension in otherwise serene moments of musical development.

The piece is loosely organized into three continuous sections. A great deal of rhythmic accuracy and control is necessary in order to really cultivate a feeling of comfortable tension. Additionally, several sections of the opening rely on the marked dynamics to fully communicate this idea. The bassoon solo between the first and second sections may be covered by any appropriate instrument of a similar range, or it may be omitted entirely if suitable personnel are not available.

The middle section should be less about the tempo and more about the feeling of release and relaxation. Allow the stable percussive elements and the repeated figures in the clarinets to drive this section, while the longer phrases soar above. A slight pause may be appropriate following the fortissimo release at the conclusion of the section, but take great care not to linger too long here.

The conclusion resurrects many of the same emotions as the opening; however most of the rhythmic interest is generated here in a more conventional manner. Percussive elements should direct the piece forward from the background until they take control at their feature between the unison statements by the winds. The piece closes with a brief reminder of the opening bars before reaching its ultimate destination. Destination Cincopation was commissioned by Rory Davis and the Cinco Ranch Junior High Honors Band in Katy, Texas. It was completed and premiered in the spring of 2009 in concert with Mr. Davis conducting.

- Jason K. Nitsch