Program Notes

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Written in 2005, this Chorale Prelude is a brief setting of the Advent Hymn Veni, Veni Emmanuel for Wind Ensemble. The piece was composed for the California High School Band, under the direction of Mr. Doug Nordquist. The melody for the Christian Advent Hymn Veni, Veni Emmanuel, has been traced back to the 15th century. 

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In contrast to the Wind Ensemble version in F Minor, the Full Orchestra setting retains the key of E minor. The work begins with the percussion section softly setting a rhythmic pulse and mood that prepares for the entrance of the piccolo solo. The piccolo, joined by the flute section, quickly grows in energy and volume as the other instruments enter. The Full band cadences at letter E, where the hymn tune is clearly stated and played with majesty. (You will find, in one of the counter-lines, the brief reference to Bach’s Little Fugue in G Minor.)

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