Freilach No. 1

"Freilach No. 1" is often a traditional klezmer piece that all klezmer bands around the world know. This piece was commissioned by the Sitka Fine Arts Camp in Sitka, Alaska. Dr. Stephen Meyer, the director of bands and assistant professor of music at Northern Arizona University, led the commission and directed the premiere of the piece during the SFAC High School Camp. "Freilach No. 1" often referred to as "Sher" or "Sherale," reflects the dance of two individuals moving in opposite directions, symbolizing the opening and closing motion of scissors. This piece pays homage to the Klezmer tradition of "Freilach No. 1" through vibrant orchestration that captures the essence of the mischief of Klezmer's tone, technique, and style. The initial three measures called the doyne, serve as a fully improvised section, providing an opportunity for one, two, or many musicians to showcase their improvisational skills or introduce improvisation to those unfamiliar with it. Following the doyne, the piece showcases the low reed and the low brass sections with key clicks, air sounds, and trombone glissandos accompanying them. The main melody is played slowly, offering a distinctive touch to introduce klezmer into the concert band repertoire and provide musicians with a diverse experience in handling melodic material. The composition then transitions into a lively dance, briefly interrupted by a Flute and Tenor Sax solo accompanied by a low brass chorale. This interlude builds up momentum, accelerating into an even faster dance that culminates in an exciting end.