Music: Spirit Song

Spirit Song
By John Wimber, arr. Chelsea Pascoe
American Band Journal 78th Edition
Edited by Dr. Dorothy Gates
The Salvation Army Eastern Territory USA
www.music.use-salvationarmy.org

Chelsea Pascoe gives John Wimber’s Spirit Song a fresh lease of life in a new arrangement. Following an introduction, the original song is stated with effective simplicity, first by the upper and then lower sections of the band, in long lyrical phrases. From here, Pascoe develops this theme with shifting textures, dynamic contrasts and rhythmic variety in the accompaniment and counter- melodies, notably in the euphonium and solo cornet. This goes some way to effectively maintaining the interest of both the ensemble and listener throughout.

In terms of technical demands, the majority of bands should find the score easily accessible, meaning that the main challenge will be staying in control of balance and intonation. The approachability is enhanced further by relatively light percussion demands from the score, with only two parts required. That being said, the percussion writing pleasantly complements the brass, particularly in the glockenspiel lines. Works such as this may seem relatively lightweight in the grand scheme of things, but their melodic charm and ease of listening have a lasting attractiveness for audiences. Spirit Song is certainly an enjoyable addition to their concert repertoire.

THOMAS DUNNE

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