Dystopia (Band Gr. 1)

2017-18 J.W. Pepper Editor's Choice Selection

Dystopia is a dark and brooding musical exploration of a nation severely damaged by a long war. Filled with driving rhythms, blazing dissonances, and rapid-fire tuttis, this dramatic epic places musicians at the center of the ruin where everyone plays a part in the final escape. Dystopia works great as a concert opener or closer and will make your students sound mature beyond their abilities.

Genre: Band | # of Players: Standard
Level: 1 | Duration: 2:30

Instrumentation
Flute
Oboe (optional Flute 2)
Bassoon
B-flat Clarinet 1
B-flat Clarinet 2
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
F Horn
Trombone 1 & 2
B.C. Baritone
T.C. Baritone
Tuba

Timpani (2 drums)
Mallets (bells, xylophone)
Snare Drum & Bass Drum
Cymbals (suspended cymbal, crash cymbals)
Cowbell & Brake Drum (optional)
Cabasa (optional)

Program Notes
Dystopia was inspired by the recent blockbuster trilogies The Hunger Games and Divergent and tells the story of a society working together to survive and rebuild a war-torn nation. Each member of the band plays a part in the reconstruction process and, in the end, the piece serves as a musical toast to the fascinating Dystopia movie genre and to the idea of working together to break free. From the initial landing into the dystopia to the heart-pounding climax, the image of a dystopian society comes to life. I hope your band enjoys this piece.
- J.C.