Tradition Vol. 5 (Legacy of the March)

Label: Mark Masters
Title: Tradition Volume V (Legacy of the March)
Performer: Texas A&M Symphonic Band
Conductor: Timothy Rhea

March #1: “Port Arthur” / Composer: Roland F. Seitz

This march, written in 1904, begins at a frantic tempo utilizing lots of woodwind “swirls.” This march has a “continuous forward motion” feel to it, with a driving, unrelenting tempo. One may imagine that he/she at a circus watching the fast-moving acrobats. The low basses will need to be technically proficient in order to perform this piece with clarity. The march makes use of dynamic contrasts throughout. The woodwinds will need agility and dexterity to perform the many scalular runs at a very fast tempo.

This piece would make a good encore number or novelty number. However, the tempo of the march should be adhered to in order to bring the composition to a breathless conclusion.
Recommended for: High School / College
Purchase: Tradition Volume V: Legacy of the March

March #2 “Circus Bee” Composer: Henry Fillmore

The second march, written in 1908, is another fast-paced composition, similar in style to Port Arthur. One will need lots of strong lower brass to make this march come to life. It also has nice dynamic shadings, with a typical “dogfight” section employing excellent contrapuntal writing.

Both marches are flamboyant in nature, and present a technical challenge for all players. At a quick tempo, they have the capacity to generate a great deal of excitement.
Recommended for: High School / College
Purchase: Tradition Volume V: Legacy of the March