Review

William Byrd
Lavolta:

Arranged by William J. Blanton


St. Could, MN, United States
Publisher: Medici Music Press,
Date of Publication: 1982

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 5 brass

This excellent arrangement is part of the Las Vegas Brass Quintet Series of Medici Press and dates from 1982. It is from the great English composer William Byrd (1543-1623) and is one of two pieces with the same title found among his dance compositions for virginals, the Elizabethan variety of harpsichord. According to the program notes: “the date of composition and the occasion for which they were written has not come down to us but one of them has the laconic designation T Morley set by Byrd, which certainly indicates the amicable relationship that must have existed.” Though a short work this dance piece challenges younger players with its G major key, 6/4 time signature and quick tempo of dotted half note = 60. Typical of the period are its terraced dynamics of forte and piano, and its balanced and metrical phrases. Blanton’s scoring gives the chords a full, rich sound in the forte sections. In addition, arranger Blanton’s background as a trumpeter is obvious as both trumpet parts lead the piece, judiciously exchanging phrases. The first trumpet part contains the final, most ornate passage that will likely require extra practice. Horn, trombone and tuba parts have no range challenges but the tuba part is technically more intricate. This piece works well to open a concert and to introduce audiences to the fine English composer. At the time of publication, Blanton, an Indiana University graduate was performing in Las Vegas at the Frontier Hotel after previously touring with Woody Herman and Henry Mancini among others.

-Tom Zugger
Capitol University