ENCHANTED - Parts & Score

Grade 2.5
 
Duration 3:20
 
Enchanted was commissioned by Bowling Green Junior High Bands, Bowling Green, Ohio, under the direction of Bruce Corrigan. Targeted specifically for Mr. Corrigan's seventh grade band, the piece is open to imaginative interpretation by the students.
 
The piece opens transparently, featuring several soloists and rendering an image of mystery. The seemingly sporadic percussion colors of m.17 establish an atmosphere that serves as a setting for the piece. Although the flute entrance in m. 25 is marked mp, it is important that the flutes play with a full and supported sound; the overall effect due to the register will be mp. As the work evolves, the listener experiences a growing apprehension that leads to the dramatic statement of the Dies Irae motive in the low brass and woodwinds in m. 61. The fp in the winds must be performed accurately to create the desired effect. Through the subsequent measures, the character of the work is transformed to an "entranced" state. This section should be conducted in two, returning to a feeling of four in m.81. Never waking from this hypnotic state, the piece evaporates to the final strike of the triangle.
 
Throughout Enchanted, the colors and composite rhythms in the percussion parts are vital. In particular, it is engaging for students to focus on the role of the triangle and its effect on the development of the program. The composer does not wish to elaborate further on the specific programmatic aspects of the work: instead, the students themselves should create stories that relate to the music. Though the stories may be fictional in nature at first, students should be encouraged to discuss situations in real-life where one may surrender to "enchantment."
 
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