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Title	A Fond Farewell  NEW!
Article no.	4123476
Category	Concert/wind/brass band
Subcategory	Concert music
Instrumentation	Ha (concert/wind band); YB (young band)
Format	PrtStm (full score and parts)
Country of publication	USA (us)
Publisher *	C.L. Barnhouse Company
Publisher's article no. *	BA 011-4742-00
Series title	Command Series
Year of publication	2019
Price	click here
Composer	Susi, Anthony
Difficulty level	2+
Duration	3:07
Additional info/contents	"A Fond Farewell” is a warm retrospective work for developing bands, which musically expresses the mixed emotions felt by the departure of a retiring teacher, coach or graduates. It begins with two lush melancholy melodies, evoking feelings of sadness over leaving, that build to a dramatic climax with stirring lines. These opening themes shift to a joyous celebration of starting an exciting new chapter in life through a lively change in tempo and meter for an uplifting ending! (© Barnhosue Music)
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Programme notes *: Farewell and New Beginnings in “A Fond Farewell” Anthony Susi’s “A Fond Farewell” is a concert work for wind band, graded at a difficulty level of 2.5. It was composed for James F. Hilbie, who retired after 35 years as an instrumental music educator in Connecticut’s public schools. This dedication shapes the musical structure: the piece honors the significance of committed music education, framing the farewell as a transition toward a new chapter in life. • From a Pensive Beginning to a Celebratory Movement The opening, marked “Solemnly” and set in triple meter, unfolds with a calm, restrained atmosphere at a tempo of quarter note = 80. The melody and accompanying parts are crafted to create a fluid, cohesive sound. According to the publisher’s program notes, this opening captures the bittersweet sentiment associated with saying goodbye to a cherished educator. As the piece progresses, its character evolves. The initial, somewhat melancholic mood gives way to a reflective look back, celebrating the musical and pedagogical achievements of the bands. Later, a change in meter and a significantly livelier tempo usher in a more joyful section—marked “Energetic” at quarter note = 132, beginning at measure 43. This transition from contemplative stillness to spirited celebration creates a narrative arc that is easily grasped, even by a young ensemble. • Tonal Colors of the Wind Band The instrumentation offers a wealth of opportunities to explore diverse tonal colors. Woodwinds, brass, and percussion each play distinct roles, working together to convey the shifting moods. The glockenspiel and xylophone add bright, clear accents to the overall orchestral texture. Timpani, snare and bass drums, triangle, suspended cymbal, wind chimes, and cymbals allow for a nuanced approach, ranging from understated accompaniment to bold, striking accents. The overall effect is not merely a matter of volume. Crucial factors include the balance between melody and accompaniment, the gradation of dynamics, and the clear differentiation of articulation styles. It is precisely the contrast between smooth, tranquil passages and more energetic sections that gives the work its distinct dramatic structure. • Technical Demands and Pedagogical Application With a difficulty rating of 2.5, this composition is aimed at intermediate-level concert bands and youth wind ensembles that already possess foundational ensemble experience. The challenges extend beyond simply playing one’s own part accurately; the work also requires careful attention to tempo, changes in time signature, dynamic progression, and shifts in musical style. The calm opening offers an opportunity to develop a resonant, mellow tone and to foster attentive listening among ensemble members. Accompanimental parts should align with the phrasing of the melody to create a cohesive, unified sound. In the livelier section, rhythmic precision and a shared sense of impulse take center stage. Consequently, rehearsals can serve to enhance both technical proficiency and ensemble cohesion. The thematic content also lends itself well to pedagogical work. The piece illustrates how musical elements can convey a narrative arc—moving from melancholy, through reflection and acknowledgment, toward joy and a sense of new beginnings. Young musicians can explore how tempo, meter, dynamics, articulation, and timbre contribute to defining the character of the music. • Performance Notes For a compelling interpretation, the dynamic markings should be followed with care. An opening that is too loud would undermine the tranquil character of the piece, while an insufficient build-up could obscure the subsequent shift in mood. Equally important is a clear differentiation in articulation. The legato passages require a calm, flowing line, while the lively section demands a style of playing that is both precise and light. When preparing the piece, it is advisable to first work out the melody and its phrasing. The accompaniment can then be added, with careful attention paid to breath control, ensemble balance, and the seamless connection of musical lines. The transition to the faster section should be prepared within a shared pulse, ensuring that the shift does not feel abrupt. The percussion should support the overall structure without obscuring the melodic lines. • “A Fond Farewell” combines a clear dramaturgy accessible to young ensembles with a personal occasion. For conductors, the piece serves as a valuable addition to the repertoire, offering a focused opportunity to develop expression, ensemble balance, and musical shaping. At the same time, it can set a comprehensible thematic focus in a concert program: as a musical tribute to an influential teacher and as a celebration of a new beginning. Text: © musicainfo.net (KI) Quellen/Sources: Barnhouse Music: A Fond Farewell

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	Format
	A Fond Farewell (concert/wind band; young band), full score and parts
	A Fond Farewell (concert/wind band; young band), full score
	A Fond Farewell (concert/wind band; young band), full score, large
	Catalyst, audio CD

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