Composer

John Yao

Arranger

John Yao

Category

Big Band

Level

Advanced

Style

Straight 8th

Ranges

Duration

9:50

Description

Featuring a medium, understated straight 8th feel throughout, “Slow. . . Children at Play” is a light, colorful piece that is both simple and deceptively complex. A minimalist textured introduction in 5/4 paves the way before settling into a steady 4/4 groove. The simple melody played by Soprano Sax and a 5th Trombone is balanced by a colorful harmonic hook which is developed throughout the piece. Solos by Tenor Sax and Trombone are followed by a full ensemble shout with solo space for the drums. The work closes with an extended cool down in the rhythm section and concludes with a colorful chord. “Slow. . . Children at Play” is a challenging piece that works well when you want to slow things down in your program or you need a change of pace.