30 Celebrated Quartets, Volume I for 2 Violins, Viola and Cello

Variants on a Shaped Note Tune was commissioned by the Homewood Middle School Band (Homewood, AL), and was premiered at the Alabama MusicEducators Association Conference in January 2006. The title refers to a traditional early American singing style based on reading a system of s hapes rather than musical notes. Based on the Scottish tune “Pisgah” from the shape note songbook, The Sacred Harp, the Variants begin simply with a statement by unison clarinets. From there beginsa series of distinctive variations featuring an ingenious mix of styles , tempos, and instrumentation. Destined to become a staple on required contest lists for years to come, this work provides an exceptional complement for any program or festival. Dur: 5:00 (Includes Full Performance CD)