Joyous Overture, A Gary D. Ziek

Band
Number of Players:Standard
Copyright:2004
Piccolo
Flute 1/2
Oboe 1/2
Bb Clarinet 1
Bb Clarinet 2/3
Bb Bass Clarinet
Bassoon 1/2
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Bb Trumpet 1
Bb Trumpet 2/3
Horn in F 1/2
Horn in F 3/4
Trombone 1
Trombone 2/3
Euphonium
Tuba
Piano
Timpani
Percussion 1 (chimes, tambourine, triangle)
Percussion 2 (vibraphone, suspended cymbal, xylophone, bells)
Percussion 3 (crash cymbals, snare drum, suspended cymbal)
Percussion 4 (bass drum, suspended cymbal, triangle)
A Joyous Overture is inspired by and dedicated to my son Benjamin. I have attempted to capture his energy, humor and good spirits. The overture begins with an exuberant fanfare, which quickly leads to a faster, energetic melody. This section progresses through several episodes, and builds to a fortissimo conclusion and transition to a slower middle section. The new lyrical theme, first stated by a solo trumpet, is based on the first two letters of the name Benjamin. The two pitches rise and fall in succession (These are transposed down one half step to Bb Eb Eb Bb). The trumpet is joined by others in the ensemble, as the slow section builds to a climax. The middle section concludes softly, and a transition brings back the return of the faster tempo. This leads to the coda, where the ensemble drives the overture to a jubilant conclusion.
- Gary D. Ziek