SKU: SU.32040050

Woodwind Quintet (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon) Duration: 6' Composed: 2012 Published by: Amy Mills Music, LLC 3 movements I. Seven Toes Down II. En Pointe III. Muddy Boots This charming suite has three short movements, each with its own character. The suite bursts open with breathless energy. Seven Toes Down is modal, in 7/8 time, with people dancing in bare feet on bare ground, so vigorously that it kicks up the dust. En Pointe opens with a lovely waltz, then it focuses in on the tiny, delicate movements of a ballerina high up on her toes. Muddy Boots is big strong guys, covered with dirt from a hard day of work, practicing one-upmanship. Different players have the chance to show what they can do, surrounded by their friends. Then we catch another glimpse of the ballerina before closing playfully with Seven Toes Down. Difficulty Level: 4 (Advanced) See composer website for audio sample.

SKU: CF.CPS272F

ISBN 9781491164112. UPC: 680160922901.

Pelican Dance was composed in 2022 as part of my annual commitment to create a piece to be premiered by our University of Mobile High School Honor Band. I had a beginning concept for a “dance” piece and was leaning toward something which was a little quirky, fun and not too serious. One day, during my regular commute across Mobile Bay, I noticed the pelicans, elegant birds in the air and water but awkward on land. I tried to imagine a pelican dancing and decided I had my mascot and theme.The opening motif, played in octaves by the whole ensemble in the first measure, is fundamental for the entire work. It is stated in some form at the beginning of each section, is the basis for the first theme and is even used as the bass line later in the piece. It should be clearly stated each time it appears.Performance considerations: Although there are contrasting moments in the work, the tempo should never waiver. It should remain brisk and consistent from section to section.Dynamic contrast is an important aspect of the compositional design and stylistic makeup of the piece. The subito dynamics, fp, etc., need to be almost startling.Percussion drives the energy of this composition to a strong degree, and it is probably the most fun section in the band for this piece. Covering those parts effectively is critically important.