Wood's Bolero

The traditional bolero is a moderately slow dance in triple meter which originated in late 18th-century Spain. The Cuban bolero became a bit faster in tempo and duple in meter. In the U.S. it became a staple of competitive ballroom dancing, even faster and in 4/4 time. Maurice Ravel's Bolero for orchestra hearkens back to the slower Spanish dance in three. Wood's Bolero focuses on the American version but maintains elements of the dance's origins and first iterations. This multilevel piece includes a full set of parts for Grade 2 ensembles as well as a full set for Grade 4. For string orchestra with optional rock rhythm section parts. (4:30)