CONTRABAND (1991) for band by Michael Schelle

CONTRABAND (1991) for band
by Michael Schelle

Commissioned by Kappa Kappa Psi & Indiana University Bands, Bloomington, IN
First Performance: October 1991, IU Wind Symphony, Ray Cramer, conductor

This performance:
Butler University Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Michael Schelle, conductor
November 1998

Although there is a brief reference to THE UNTOUCHABLES theme (1960's TV crime program) at the very end, the main 'contraband' element of the piece is the use (and abuse) of a few brief "Tristan und Isolde" fragments - in the keys of B minor, B Major and E major (terrible keys for band). The final blow happens @ c. 8:20 when the low brass players stand up, and vocalize the Tristan motive, while triumphantly holding their horns in the air ... ;)

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