Shape Shifting

SKU: PR.165000970

ISBN 9781491100462. UPC: 680160626717. 9x12 inches.

Commissioned by a consortium of 20 high school and university bands coordinated by Scott Hanna of the University of Texas at Austin, Downshifting is inspired by Welcher’s joy of bicycle riding. Welcher explains in the program note: When I decided to write a piece for band that was basically entertaining and uplifting, it made perfect sense to call it Downshifting... With three gears on the front sprocket and seven on the rear, it’s possible to keep one’s legs going at a constant speed (for me, q = 126) while the bike itself may be moving very slowly or very quickly. I determined to capitalize on this in writing Downshifting, which keeps the same mathematical inner pulse, ‘shifting’ (with a ratchet) as the terrain changes..
One of the joys of life for me is riding my 21-speed bicycle.  As a basically non-athletic person who nonetheless likes to stay in shape, I have found that riding my bike provides just the exercise I need.  The workout is strenuous, but pleasant—and the infinite variety of scenery I pass keeps me alert and wide awake.  When I decided to write a piece for band that was basically entertaining and uplifting, it made perfect sense to call it Downshifting.With three gears on the front sprocket and seven on the rear, it’s possible to keep ones legs going at a constant speed (for me, that’s 126 to the quarter note) while the bike itself may be moving very slowly or very quickly.  I determined to capitalize on this in writing the music, which manages to keep the same mathematical inner pulse, “shifting” (with a ratchet) as the terrain changes.  So Downshifting begins with that steady pulse, on a grid of eighth notes in 2/4 to propel the little vehicle forward.  There’s a joyous little tune in our heads as we begin our ride.  As the initial thrill of riding on the flat gives way to monotony, we stay in that pulse for the first minute or so of the ride.  Then, as the first hill becomes visible, we shift the bike down: even though the eighths are equal, the pulse feels slower (and we’re now in 6/8 time).  Ultimately the compound meter shifts again as the climb begins, and we’re now plodding doggedly up the hill.  (The music reflects all of these changes, with subtitles such as “Working harder—Seeing the climb, ahead”, “Steady and committed…the climb begins!”, “Straining against the grade”, etc.).There are two hills, and two long climbs (but in different keys, reflecting the change in scenery).  When at last the summit of the second hill is reached (“Flying, Over the Top”), we coast at last down the other side at breakneck speed.  The initial joyous melody returns, but now in a spread-out coasting pulse.  At the end of the ride, we slow to a stop—then take one last sprint (shifting five times in the process) in order to end on a biker’s high.Downshifting was commissioned by a consortium of fourteen high school and college bands, overseen by my longtime colleague at the University of Texas, Scott Hanna.  The piece is dedicated to him (and to all bicycle enthusiasts).

SKU: CF.YPS210F

ISBN 9781491152973. UPC: 680160910472.

Proteus sets out to depict musical transformation with shifting elements of style, color, and texture, emulating its shape-shifting, mythical ancient Greek namesake. Grant Michel encourages young bands to explore their musical range, from the mysterious to the intimidating, in this fresh contemporary piece.

SKU: FJ.FJH2339

ISBN 9781619282841. UPC: 241444410554. English.

A highly original collection wittily depicts various superpowers with titles such as Strength, Mind Control, Healing, X-Ray Vision plus five more. Christopher adds short suggestions and a technique tip about each piece. Students will be intrigued and inspired by the concepts and the music... making them become super pianists!

About FJH Composers in Focus

Composers in Focus is a series of original piano collections celebrating the creative artistry of contemporary composers. It is through the work of these composers that the piano teaching repertoire is enlarged and enhanced.

SKU: AP.46004

UPC: 038081524665. English.

Ancient legend says that as the Oneida were being chased on foot through a forest by an enemy tribe, they came to a clearing and suddenly disappeared from sight, confounding their enemies by shape-shifting into the stones that stood in the clearing. This piece is meant to commemorate that event. (4:30).

SKU: AP.48838

UPC: 038081561622. English. Words adapted from As With Gladness Men of Old by William C. Dix; music; additional words; by Ruth Morris Gray.

This sweet setting is an adaptation of the As with Gladness Men of Old text about those who followed the star. Concise vocal ranges, sensible phrasing, and a naturally flowing poetic meter make for manageable preparation during the busiest time of year. Ruth's ability to construct a lyrical melody, memorable piano motives, and logical voice parts shines clearly through. Several satisfying suspensions and a momentary tonal shift provide a warm harmonic backdrop. Be sure to observe the expressive dynamic and tempo markings to shape the most musical performance. A lovely selection for both concert and worship.