This features alto 1 and accordion. The second solo could alternatively be for piano, but it’s just lovely on accordion if you have a player.
5 reeds (doubles are important on this piece), 4 trumpets/fluegelhorns, 3 trombones, 1 bass trombone, accordion*, guitar, piano, bass, drums.
*If accordion is not available, you could consider trying vibes instead.
Recorded on 2nd of the two Data Lords CDs, “Bluebird” was co-commissioned by The Hopkins Center, Dartmouth College, The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, and The Center for Performing Arts at Penn State University for its premiere in April 2016.
“Bluebird” has a lot of intricacy in its lines and harmony. This one will keep you busy as the orchestration isn’t blocky and big band-like. That also makes it trickier to play, no question about it. The players can’t just rely on listening to those on either side. There is a lot more independency and blending across sections. It’s challenging to play, and likely challenging to look at and study as a score. Additionally, the transposed score will keep your brain young. This one may have actual brain health benefits!
Under “Solos” and “Instrumentation” you can see what information I am giving to those that are buying sets of scores & parts for their group that may not have accordion living within 300 miles. That would be sad, as it’s important to the color of the piece and I’ve grown addicted to the sound, but you can see the alternative I offered.
See full selection of Study Scores (individual, or by album).