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Ray Downey Memorial Music Library

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Concerto for Jazzers and Orchestra

Original Compositions \ Large Ensemble \

Instrumentation:
Large Symphony Orchestra with Solo Tenor Saxophone, Bass, and Drum Set

Difficulty:
Advanced

Commissioned and debuted in 2008 by the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra, this four-movement concerto is a seamless blend of jazz and classical influence. Movements entitled: 

1: Introduction and Allegro, 2: Scherzo, 3: Ballade, and 4: Cannon, Fugue, and Coda.

Escape from Zone 12

Original Compositions \ Large Ensemble \

Instrumentation:
9 Reeds (SATB Saxes, Eb, Bb, and Bass Clarinets, Flute, Wood Flute), Percussion, and Acoustic Bass

Difficulty:
Advanced

A large-scale piece full of extended techniques, inspired by Anthony Braxton. Written as a way of releasing his feelings towards Zone 12 (Conventional methods of playing European and American music), “Escape from Zone 12” is a challenging “mosaic or collage” of 10 main sections and 10 subsections, and requires advanced techniques from musician and conductor alike.

Prelude to a Riff

Original Compositions \ Large Ensemble \

Instrumentation:
5 Trumpets, 3 Trombones, Bass Trombone, Tuba

Difficulty:
Advanced

Medium-length jazz-inspired work for 10 brass instruments. Includes chorale, jazz fanfare, and double-time jazz sections.

Struttin’ Around Downtown

Original Compositions \ Large Ensemble \

Instrumentation:
Large Symphony Orchestra

Difficulty:
Advanced

This one-movement smphonic jazz epic is subtitled “Rag, Ballad, and Blues.” The piece provides great opportunities for every section to shine, culminating in a fortissimo staccato extravaganza.

©2021 Diana Murphy