Opening Night (f/o) Brian Balmages

For Full Orchestra or Symphonic Band
By Brian Balmages
Full Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Grade: 3.5
Series: MakeMusic Full Orchestra
Composed by: Brian Balmages
Ensemble: Full Orchestra
Format: Conductor Score & Parts
Item Number: 00-50709
ISBN 10: 1-4706-6176-4
ISBN 13: 978-1-4706-6176-2
UPC: 038081579269

ABOUT THE MUSIC
When Tracey Filben approached me with the idea of writing a piece for band and orchestra in memory of her student Jim Gracey, she made a few things abundantly clear. They did not want the piece to be somber; rather, they wanted it to be more of a celebration of life. She told me that Jim was quite the character and was full of life. In addition to playing clarinet and viola, he had a strong affinity for the stage and loved musicals. He was certainly a bright light with a glowing personality.
In thinking about all of this, it became clear to me what direction this piece would go. I decided that this would be the overture to a yet-to-be-written musical, one that Jim would be starring in. lt is exciting, full of life, and highly rhythmic and energetic. In addition, there are specific nods to Jim's instruments, clarinet and viola. I view this as the ultimate celebration: when the curtain comes up, the spotlight turns on, and the magic begins as the show finally reaches its 'opening night.'
The piece is dedicated to the John Marshall High School Band and Orchestra, Jim Gracey, and his family. May this be one of countless opening nights as the piece continues to receive performances all around the country and the world.

PERFORMANCE NOTES
This piece is designed to work in three different ensemble settings. lt was originally conceived for a traditional full orchestra instrumentation (no bass clarinet, saxophones, or euphonium). Thus, it works exceptionally well in that scenario. lt will also work for symphonic band alone (without strings). In that aase, there are a few string cues provided in the band parts where necessary, and they should be played. Finally, groups may choose to combine
symphonic band with strings.