Shapeshifter (Solo Brass Quintet + Band Gr. 5)

Inspired by a variety of different mythologies, Shapeshifter conveys a musical depiction of the concept of changing form at will. The piece alters, morphs, and transforms its ideas in exciting and thoughtful ways for both the solo brass quintet and its accompanying symphonic band.

Genre: Solo Brass Quintet with Band | # of Players: Standard + 5
Series: Diamond Band Series
Level: 5 | Duration: 7:50

Instrumentation
Transposed Score (11"x17" spiral bound)

Piccolo
Flute 1
Flute 2
Oboe
Bassoon
B-flat Clarinet 1
B-flat Clarinet 2
B-flat Clarinet 3
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1
Alto Saxophone 2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Solo B-flat Trumpet 1*
Solo B-flat Trumpet 2*
Solo F Horn
Solo Trombone
Solo Tuba

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
B-flat Trumpet 3
F Horn 1
F Horn 2
F Horn 3
F Horn 4
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Euphonium
B-flat Euphonium T.C.
Tuba

String Bass
Piano

Timpani (4 drums)
Crotales (2 octaves), Triangle
Glockenspiel, Triangle
Drum Set
Percussion 1: Triangle, 4 Concert Toms, Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbal, Tambourine
Percussion 2: Tam-Tam, Tambourine, Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbal *C Trumpet Parts also included.

Program Notes
Shapeshifter draws inspiration from many mythologies, each associated with the concept of changing form at will. The work alters, morphs and transforms a few simple motives across its duration, featuring each section of the brass quintet and band in varying emotional and textural settings, all representative of the nature of change.

The solo trumpets represent the Marid Jinn (genies) of Arabic mythology. Their menacing intervals and mischievous motives evoke the unpredictable nature of the Marid, who possess the power to grant wishes, and may take on many physical forms. As the music unfolds, a fierce musical battle symbolizes the struggle of obtaining a wish granted by the Jinn.

The tuba, echoing the essence of the Greek sea god Proteus, showcases its mastery of transformation through the deep and resonant tones of the instrument. Much like Proteus, the tuba creates a challenge for those seeking its wisdom. The tuba's fluid motifs reflect the elusive nature of Proteus, making the tuba a central figure in the dynamic narrative of the composition.

The horn serves as a symbolic bridge, representing the shapeshifting abilities of Vishnu in Hindu mythology. As Vishnu takes on various avatars to restore cosmic order, the horn guides the listener through the stylistic curve of the piece. The horn's melodic and harmonic contributions mirror the divine transformations of Vishnu, adding a layer of spiritual depth to the musical journey.

The trombone, being a shapeshifter itself, embodies the Kitsune, exploring the instrument's versatile and expressive qualities. Kitsune are renowned for their enchanting beauty and magical powers in Japanese mythology, with the trombone capturing these characteristics through soaring, charged melodies. The instrument's ability to seamlessly transition between varying tonal colors mirrors the transformation of the Kitsune, creating an exciting sonic portrayal.

Shapeshifter weaves together these varied mythological influences using the expressive capabilities of the brass quintet and the wind band to bring to life the tales of shapeshifting beings from Arabic, Greek, Hindu, and Japanese traditions. The composition takes the performer and listener on a musical journey, exploring the dynamic interplay between these mythical entities and the challenges inherent in seeking their wisdom and favors.