Gr. 4-5: Experienced-Advanced         Duration: ca. 7:10

Autumn holds a special place in the hearts of people worldwide. Whether that shows itself in harvest festivals, the beloved holidays of the season, or even the beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte, this strange and wonderful season is near and dear to so many hearts. However, one part sticks out more than any other. The gorgeous reds, yellows, and oranges of the Autumn Leaves.

This production starts with the classic standard by Joseph Kosma, conjuring images of falling leaves and the nostalgic feelings that so many associate with the season. These are emphasized by sparse instrumentation and a lonely flute solo at the beginning before the hornline adds in to play the whole melody, building to a massive ensemble moment with the band’s raw power on display. Immediately, the percussion launches into Michael Torke’s "Saxophone Concerto," with an insistent rhythm pushing the whole ensemble forward before easing back to let the winds have various features showing off both technical and lyrical moments.

A solo piano introduces "The Ludlows," a selection from James Horner’s classic score to Legends of the Fall before the woodwinds pick up the lush melody, reminiscent of Copland and invoking images of coming home and seeing loved ones dearly missed. A drawn-out build slowly pulls in the whole ensemble, and as the winds release their final chord, it’s clear that the ensemble has arrived at its destination. 

The last movement consists of one of the most famous pieces in the wind band repertoire, as the final two movements from Holst’s “First Suite in Eb” lead to the celebration of home and everything it entails. This movement is full of opportunities for the percussion to shine and for the ensemble to feature a lush and full sound before coming to a triumphant end! 

• Part 1 (ca. 2:45)
• Autumn Leaves - Joseph Kosma
  
• Saxophone Concerto - Michael Torke
  
• Part 2 (ca. 2:15)
• The Ludlows, from Legends of the Fall - James Horner
  
• Part 3 (ca. 2:10)
• First Suite in Eb - Gustav Holst
  

INSTRUMENTATION

• Flute 1/2
• Clarinet 1/2
• Bass Clarinet
• Alto Sax 1/2
• Tenor Sax
• Baritone Sax
• Trumpet 1/2/3
• Horn 1/2
• Low Brass 1/2/3
• Tuba

Percussion Available Separately:

• Matt Hahn: Resonant Music Design