Autumn Blues

Autumn Blues is a short ballad for concert band. It uses jazz-inspired harmony while maintaining a classical approach. Its theme, or "A section", focuses on a lush upper woodwind choir with trumpet countermelodies. It modulates keys several times in its more rhythmic bridge, taking the audience on a journey. The bridge uses the whole ensemble throughout, with a variety of textures, melody, harmonic support, and counterpoint. These sections repeat. A short interlude includes an alto and tenor saxophone duet with a soft background, with more parts subsequently coming in for a concluding "A section". This final section has the trumpets playing the theme, with low brass and woodwinds having moving lines and bass parts that provide direction. This leads to its strong conclusion, a statement by unified upper parts and a descending bass line. Throughout the piece, the melody should always be prominent, while allowing moving lines and countermelodies to come through. Dynamics and phrasing should be aided by the interpretation of the conductor and ensemble.