This work was written for Dr. Gary T. Garner and the West Texas State University Symphonic Band and is scored for 72 individual instruments (piccolo, 6 flutes, 3 oboes, English Horn, E-flat clarinet, 11 B-flat clarinets, 2 bass clarinets, 2 bassoons, contrabassoon, 2 alto saxophones, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, 8 horns, 12 trumpets, 2 euphoniums, 4 trombones, 2 bass trombones, 4 tubas, and 8 percussionists). Unlike many band scores where instruments play in sections, my Concerto has a separate part for each musician. Because of this, I was able to end the work with 72 independent parts . . . as in 72-part counterpoint! The program notes from the premiere in Carnegie Hall appear below in case you want to read more. Since 1990, West Texas State University has been known as West Texas A&M University.
Gary Garner put together a wonderful program, and his musicians gave an outstanding performance. I have been enjoying reviewing all of the materials related to this piece and its premiere!
An excerpt from the Carnegie Hall program:
I want to express my thanks to Wes Naron for making the recording available on YouTube. Wes, a bass trombonist, attended WTSU, and he was the first chair when the band went to Carnegie Hall in 1983. He is currently Co-Theatre/Performing Arts Center Manager and Fine Arts Department Chair at John B. Connally High School in Austin, TX.
This work is available from the Theodore Presser Company. Click here for rental information.
Larry Alan Smith 