Portfolio of scores

Rock, R

Abstract

My portfolio consists of a number of works written for wind and brass ensembles,exploring traditional and alternative forms of textures, sounds and compositional methods.
• The Hunter's Blade - A brass band work comprising three different styles. The first is wild, using folk music to create a rural scene with dramatic dynamics, attack of
notes, and time changes. The second and third styles employ Jazz and popular harmonies to create an urban scene.
• Fiero - A work for Brass Band with cornet soloist. This piece explores technical and lyrical aspects of playing for both soloist and band. It's based around the character
of the soloist for whom it was written. The piece has mood swings ranging from wild and argumentative to smooth and sensitive, but is always performed with 'Fiero' -
the Italian word for 'proud'.
• Leviathan - A piece for Tuba and Piano. This work explores a range of techniques available to the modern tuba player, from the standard bass accompaniment to virtuosic soloist, displaying advanced technical ability, extended range, and multiphonics, through a range of styles from funk to classical.
• Heroes of Erin - A four movement work for brass band based on Irish folk music.
This features solos from the flugel, tenor horn and cornet, as well as challenging material for the band. The first movement uses a traditional tune with new harmonies and structure; the second combines Irish with a Middle Eastern style; the third is a solemn tune with a meandering harmonic progression; and the fourth is a combination of a jig and a hornpipe.
• Mosaic Project - A piece exploring sounds and textures. Composed using verbal instructions to an ensemble, rather than written parts, this allowed for much freedom of expression and interpretation from the performers, within some parameters.
• / Sit On Acid - A piece which features a clash of styles where the brass band takes on acid house music. A series of compromises were made in order to create a fusion.
• Silhouette - A further step in the bringing together of styles. This time a combination of Latin, Jazz, Norwegian Folk and Popular Music are thrown into the mix.
• Dawn of a New Age - 'Fanfare and Theme'. A rousing musical statement heralding the beginning of a new era. The piece is short, opening with a fanfare which is present throughout, and includes a theme representing pride and achievement.
• The Fire and the Flood - A large work for Brass Band. This piece is based around the natural cataclysmic phenomena that occur on our planet. The music suggests
volcanic eruptions, pyroclastic flows, meteorites and tsunamis - the natural disasters that effect our planet. There are a lot of influences in this work from composers
such as Stravinsky and MacMillan.

Citation

Rock, R. Portfolio of scores. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Oct 3, 2012
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2011