Review

Ted Vives
Undisonus Praeconare: for piano and brass ensemble

Los Alamos, NM, United States
Publisher: Survives Music
Date of Publication: 2001

Primary Genre: Chamber Music

Undisonus Praeconare is an energetic work for piano and brass; three trumpets, two horns, three trombones, and tuba. Dedicated to the Los Alamos Symphony Orchestra and their past director Michael Gyurik, its calm and somber beginning quickly transitions into a vibrant fanfare. The inclusion of piano is a nice addition to the brass choir sound, affording a broader spectrum for contrast and counterpoint. There are good instances of varied textures, such as the use of staggered solo entrances and broader sectional tutti passages. The work frequently cycles through various compound meter changes and features nimble tutti rhythmic patterns. The brass writing includes duplet patterns that are at times pitted against the piano’s steady triple pulse. The low brass writing is accessible. The trombone writing is largely sectional.  The range requirements for the brass are more conservative than the aforementioned rhythmic complexities. I would program this work in either a large ensemble as a sectional feature, or for a brass ensemble concert. As a 2011 winner of the American Prize in Composition (Choral Division), we look forward to learning of Ted Vives other works for brass.   

-Peter George Fielding
Red Deer College