Ewazen - Frost Fire [score]

Axiom Brass "New Standards" Released Nov 16th, 2010 http://www.axiombrass.com/newstandards Frost Fire was commissioned by the American Brass Quintet in 1989 to commemorate the 30th anniversary (in 1990) of the founding of the ensemble. The work, based on traditional forms and models, is in three movements. The first movement, marked "Bright and Fast," is a joyous celebration of sonorous chords, playful motives and rhythmic gestures. It is in strict sonata-allegro form with a clearly defined and introduction and coda. The second movement, marked "Gentle and Mysterious," has a waltz-like feel. In a ternary (A-B-A) form, the outer sections consist of ribbons of melodies being gently passed from instrument to instrument. The middle section is a stately fugue which builds in intensity, volume and rich sounding resonance. The final movement, "Tense and Dramatic," brings back material from the first movement, but sets it in a much more turbulent and frenetic environment. Although this movement is based on the skeletal outlines of a sonata form, it is much freer and more erratic, with shifting meters and contrasting, interpolated passages, ultimately leading the way to a heroic and dynamic conclusion. The purpose of this video is strictly educational and to promote chamber brass music abroad. The author makes no money or monetizes these videos. In fact, the owner of the copyrights to the original content can earn money from these videos. Please support composers and performers by purchasing their albums and sheet music.