Waltz but not a Waltz

WALTZ BUT NOT A WALTZ
OMP255, 2017. SATB. Sc 4 pp,
pts 1 p ea.

This contemporary piece is "Not a Waltz" because its meter is 5/4, grouped as 3+2. While it would be hard to waltz to this piece, it depicts quite a lot of motion. A mischievous motive bounces through the piece. The key signature alternates between C major and minor; the meter and tempo do not vary over the three-minute playing time. My ensemble found it a little more demanding than its "Moderate" grade on the Orpheus web site. Because the lines move more by leaps than stepwise, staying in C fingerings or in F fingerings may be more difficult than usual.
With key changes, Eccles's usual profusion of accidentals, and some syncopation made more interesting by the meter, this piece provides challenge enough for advanced intermediates.

This suite is graded Difficult" on the Orpheus web site. Its good humour will be appreciated on a concert.
Kathleen Arends has enjoyed playing recorders for over 40 years and being an Orff music educator for some 35. She teaches and plays in the Seattle (WA) area.

American Recorder Summer 2018