Details page

Title
Ritual music for six horns
Original Title
Composer
Johnson, Roger
Year
1972
Editor
Arranger
Year Arranged
Original Instrumentation
Publisher
Shawne Press
Year Published
1972
Catalogue Number
LD132
Sheet Music Format
A4, performance scores (6x9 = 54)
Horns
6
Additional Equipment
Straight mutes
Others
Other Instruments
Duration
8
Structure / Movements
One movement.
Clefs
Treble, bass
Meters
6/4, 4/4, 5/4, 3/4, free meter
Key signatures
None
Range
Horn 1: f# - b2 Horn 2: f# - a2 Horn 3: f$ - ab2 Horn 4: f – g2 Horn 5: B – f#2 Horn 6: G# - e2
Creator's Comments
Ritual music for six horns is essentially a sound piece which explores the rich sonority of the horn ensemble. It is also a study in texture, features contrast between various modes of articulation of chords derived form the opening six tones and was the winning composition in the Horn Club of Los Angeles Composition contest. Rehearsal suggestions: The piece fluctuates between sections notated in the traditional manner and those marked “senza Misura”. Approximate durations for those sections are indicated in brackets above the respective measures, with the understanding that they are only suggested and in no way rigid. Most of those measures are designed to enable a free and improvisatory articulation of given notes by each player independently of the others. Changes in the general speed of articulation are indicated by vertical lines in the measures. They are not to be interpreted as indicating an actual rhythmic pattern, The actual rhythmic details of those bars should be irregular and constantly varied. Balance is important, and care must be taken that the lower notes are not overpowered by the higher ones. Dynamics are also important and should be observed carefully, particularly from measures 10 to 22. Measures 60 and 61 should be played in an easy manner and not rushed. The final measure must fade gradually and not too quickly. While the piece is not connected to any actual ritual, the players should try to maintain an air of severity and deliberateness in the performance giving it a quality of solemnity.
Performance Notes
The composer said most about the work, its structure and requirements. It is an interesting piece that demands skills in many advanced techniques. While not rhythmically challenging, the dynamics are extreme, and there are many high ppp entries. If not desired for its musical value, this composition should at least be worked on for its technical requirements.
Credits
Access to review score: Nancy Joy (NMSU)
Sound
Score