Cinematic Scenes on a Civil War Tune

Description

Cinematic Scenes on a Civil War Tune was commissioned by the TMEA Region 25 Middle School Band division and premiered by that group in January 2010. It is a theme and variations on Aura Lee, an American folk tune that can be found in most beginner band method books but is still versatile enough to have been utilized by none other than Elvis Presley as the basis for Love Me Tender. The work draws its inspiration from the motion pictures and television shows of the 1960’s and 70’s. Long before computer-generated effects and images were discovered, movie producers had to generate the “awe factor” with shot-on-location panoramic aerial views, high-speed car chases, larger-than-life actors, and a cast of hundreds! This work is a tribute to another era. The music is organized with the following subtitles as follows:

Variation I — “Epic Fanfare”
Inspired by scenes of chariot races and gladiators, the mid-brass section boldly sounds the main theme. Trumpet fanfares, woodwind flourishes, and timpani punctuations accentuate the proceedings.
Theme — “Aura Lee” The oboe solo is gently accompanied by vibraphone and flute in a simple sating.

Variation II — “Action Scene”
Police cars flying at top speed in hot pursuit! Detective shows of the early 70’s! You can find the theme being tossed around between different sections, not unlike the several “extras” used on the set to portray innocent bystanders during these automotive extravaganzas! Wham…bam…screeeech…crash! “You have the right to remain silent….”

Variation III — “Bittersweet Romance”
She goes to the county fair hoping to see that special someone only to find him there riding around with her best friend! It’s complicated! A sax quartet, a la barbershop, introduces this segment as Aura Lee is turned upside down and than placed in a minor mode waltz portraying this constant state of teen angst and drama. Some things have NOT changed as much as the movie industry!

Variation IV — “And The Troops Went Off”
An homage to movies portraying our American troops, mostly in World War II, fighting the good fight with actors like John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, and Earnest Borgnine! A patrol march is the order of the day. Move out!

Variation V —”Romantic Interlude”
The theme comes full circle in this fully scored lush setting which utilizes the harmonies more commonly associated with Aura Lee. It’s an optimistic ending pointing to a bright future for the larger than life stars of yesterday!

Variation VI — “Closing Credits”
But wait there’s more! The closing credits recall motives from the 2nd variation to bring this work to an exciting conclusion! Have fun with this and watch an old movie every once in a while!

Published by: RBC Publications