About the Music
The "3-D" Galop is dedicated to the students of the Tahoka, TX High School "3-D" band and was commissioned by their band director, Mr. Carroll Rhodes. Quite interestingly, the band's alliterative motivational motto is TO DREAM TO DARE TO DO Hence the moniker "3-D" Band.
This musical "carnival ride" is a whimsical showpiece for band that exudes energy and excitement from beginning to end. It starts right off with a bright opening statement that very much sets the tone for the rest of the performance. The music then changes key and settles into the softer "Auld Lang Sine" section (There's no particular significance to this, except perhaps that the piece was completed on December 31!). The snare and bass drums play on the rims, adding to the novelty. The lower instruments herald in yet another bombastic statement before the music finally closes with a rousing bang!
Performance suggestions
First and foremost, please observe and strictly adhere to the indicated tempo markings in order to achieve an optimum performance. As in any march-type work, tempo is the single-most important aspect, (certainly not to downplay tone, intonation, dynamics, etc.) and to falter in this area will greatly compromise the character and true spirit of the piece. Care must be taken to not play too heavily, except where specifically indicated. And please observe the various dynamic contrasts, as they will greatly add to your performance.
- Composer: William Owens
- 3
- 47
- 2:14
