Composed for the West Chester University Wind Symphony
Duration: 7″
Wind Ensemble
Piccolo
Flutes 1, 2, 3
Oboes 1, 2
Bassoons 1, 2
Contrabassoon
B♭ Clarinets 1, 2, 3
Bass Clarinet
Contrabass Clarinet
Alto Saxophones 1, 2
Tenor Saxophones 1, 2
Baritone Saxophone
B♭ Trumpets 1, 2, 3, 4
F Horns 1, 2, 3, 4
Trombones 1, 2, 3
Bass Trombone
Euphonium
Tuba
Piano
Timpani
Percussion 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
“Profane Dances” is a collection of symphonic dance episodes for wind ensemble that explore themes of ritual, nature, war, and celebration. The piece is comprised of a series of individual sections, each with a distinct character. The opening section is ritualistic and solemn in nature, slowly building in intensity. This is followed by a short interlude imitating naturalistic sounds and bird calls. The third section is a preparation for war. It slowly builds in energy from a mischievous character to an aggressive and militaristic trombone soli. This leads directly into the final section which depicts celebration.
In the year leading up to me beginning work on “Profane Dances,” I had fallen in love with the chamber music of Henri Tomasi. I was particularly drawn to his works “Printemp” and “5 Danses profanes et sacrées,” which served as the inspiration for the title of my piece. “Profane Dances” is my effort to create a large ensemble work after Tomasi, paying tribute to his driving rhythms and colorful harmonic language while incorporating elements of my own style.
World premier by the West Chester University Wind Symphony on April 24th, 2024