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THERE IS A SEASON IS a work for Bb clarinet and two percussion by Howard J. Buss. The titles of the 2 movements, A Time of War, and A Time of Peace, as well as that of the larger work are derived from Ecclesiastes 3 in the Old Testament of the Bible. This striking work was written during the Second Iraq War is loosely programmatic. The 1st movement is tense and has militaristic character with dramatic proclamations culminating in an exciting solo passage for the percussion. The second movement begins with an atmosphere of apprehension that gives way to a spirited dance-like section. Eventually the sonic disposition becomes reflective, but during the clarinet cadenza the mood brightens and returns to the animated and joyous mood exhibited earlier in the movement.
Number of Players: 3
Difficulty: Grade 5
Instrumentation:
Player I: Bb Clarinet
Player II: Vibes, Tam-Tam Med. Sus Cym.
Player III: Vibes, Sus. Cym. Cowbells, Maraca Stick, Tam-Tam, Bass Drum, Tom-Toms, Snare Drum, Bongos, Tambourine, Wood Blocks, Bell Tree
Howard J. Buss (b. 1951) is recognized internationally as a significant composer of contemporary classical music. His compositions have received critical acclaim and have been performed in more than 50 countries. His music is widely performed and frequently featured at national and international music conventions and festivals. They have been performed by faculty musicians from major universities as well as current and former members of prestigious organizations such as The Boston Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Vancouver Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, etc. A copy of his patriotic composition Fanfares is included in the Presidential Collection of Ronald Reagan. Buss' more than 120 published works include instrumental solos, chamber music, symphonic, choral, and band works. They are fast becoming part of the standard repertoire in concert halls.
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