Aeolus

SKU: CF.YPS196

ISBN 9781491152164. UPC: 680160909667. Key: C minor.

Aeolus is the Greek mythological god of the winds. The title of this piece was chosen, in part, because of the Aeolian quality of the music. Although not strictly harmonized in the Aeolian mode, the themes themselves are purely Aeolian. The compositional form bookends a broad and dramatic middle section with two sections in regal march style. Aeolus is sure to be a great teaching tool for young bands!.
Aeolus is the god of the winds in Greek mythology. The title was chosen to indicate the Aeolian quality of the music. Although not strictly harmonized in the Aeolian mode, the themes themselves a purely Aeolian. The opening section of the music should be performed in a march-like manner at a brisk tempo deemed appropriate by the director for the ensemble. The countermelody first heard at m. 31 should soar above the ensemble. The transition to the middle section at m. 49 should be played broadly and dramatically with careful attention to the ritardando dimuendo, both of which should be performed smoothly and gradually. Do not rush the fermata in m. 51. A sudden shift in tempo and dynamics in the transition will detract from the entrance of the contrasting theme played soli by the clarinet section at m. 52. The counter lines found in the contrasting middle section beginning at m. 53 will require careful attention to balance. The second transition section beginning at m. 79 requires a flexible tempo and a smooth blending of the horn line into the clarinet line. An effective,  unrushed rallentando at m. 81 will make the sudden forte entrance of the brass fanfare at m. 83 all the more dramatic. At m. 109, the tempo may begin to quicken at the discretion of the director.