Four Journeys And An Arrival Double Bass/Piano (Softcover Book)

The composer writes: 'This selection of short pieces is intended to provide players of Grade 5/6 standard with music which will prepare them forfurther technical studies towards Grades 7 and 8. However, they are ess entially pieces of music and should not be regarded as a yardstick for these grades in terms of the level of required technical ability. The opening Intrada (March) needs a confident regular pulse, except for the brief interlude recalling distant trumpet calls. Rhythmic agility plus a hint of theatre is needed for the extrovert Ceremonial - a duet, with the piano dictating the balletic drama. More than a hint of the jazz-world is of the essence in the pizzicato Scherzando - strict tempo and accurately placed accents are crucial. (It's faster than you think!) In complete contrast, the harmonies of the fourth piece, Cantabile, are transformed to provide a gentle background for the developing melody in the bass part. Sustained legato, from quiet to loud and back again, is the aim.The finale (Arrival) is full or references to the earlier 'journeys' - a kind of summary of the previous lessons. It needs a lively tempo, but characterful playing is more important than speed.' '...Ellis knows h ow to compose for the double bass and there is a real dialogue between the solo line and piano part as one hopes to enjoy in a recital...Lookingat the music it would be possible to perform either the Scherzando or C antabile as separate pieces most effectively. As stated on the music, these pieces contain elements from grade 6 and beyond, but are 'essentially pieces of music', first performed by the publisher's daughter in 2008 I can recommend them to be enjoyed often in the future.' [Liz Bradley/ARCO] David Ellis was born in Liverpool in 1933 and studied at the Royal Manchester College of Music from 1953-57. His work as a composer began to be recognised at this time, not only through performances but also from important and prestigious commissions and awards including the Royal Philharmonic Prize, Ricordi Prize, Theodore Holland Award, Royal Manchester Institution Silver Medal and a Gulbenkian Award. From 1964 onwards David Ellis worked at the BBC and was subsequently appointed Head of Music, BBC North before becoming Artistic Director and Composer-in-Residenceof the Northern Chamber Orchestra in 1986. In 1994 he left the NCO to h elp set up the Orquestra Sinfónica Portuguesa, based in Lisbon, before returning to the UK to concentrate exclusively on composition. An impressive work list comprises compositions in almost every genre from opera, choral and vocal, to orchestral, concertos, brass band and chamber music