Kaska - Concertino for Euphonium

Length:  14:45  (Optional Cut to 6:45)  Difficulty:  V

The Concertino for Euphonium and Band (Piano Reduction) opens with bold fanfares in the brass section, followed by the entry of the soloist, in lyrical contrast to the snappy interruptions of the full ensemble. A florid cadenza leads to the first thematic section, marked "Hymnal," a lovely flowing tune accompanied primarily by low clarinets and bassoons. The motion picks up, and a second lyrical melody is introduced by the euphonium, now with a significant amount of counterpoint and rhythmic movement in the accompaniment. A virtuosic section emerges, with a return of the opening fanfares pitted against the technical passagework of the soloist. An active transition brings us to a central climax and euphonium cadenza. The central theme is presented, highlighted by harmonic third relationships in the brass. The full ensemble takes up the nostalgic tune—with some thrilling counter lines--and the section closes quietly. The second theme returns with undulating sixteenths, and we are presented with flashbacks of earlier material as the concertino rushes to a spirited close.

American composer Kevin Kaska enjoys great success in a variety of musical genres. His concert works have been performed and recorded by numerous groups, including the Boston Pops, St. Louis, and London Symphony Orchestras, He has also orchestrated music for film composers Hans Zimmer and John Debney with credits on films such as: Chicken Little, The Dark Knight, Monsters v. Aliens, and Transformers 2.

Parts:  BC (with tenor clef)

Recorded on Beyond the Horizon - Volume 3