Alan Danson – Passages of Time (Brass Quintet)

This attractive and well laid out piece, by Essex composer Alan Danson, is generally tonal and contains interesting rhythmic interplay and changes of time to keep performers (and listeners!) on their toes.

Review: "This work is in four contrasting movements, each one dedicated to a different aspect of time. The first movement, prefaced by the phrase Time, Time, Constant Time…. is pervaded by a gentle pulse, which propels it right from the beginning until its end. The harmonic language is colourful, but remains within the boundary of diatonicism. The music is well voiced, creating a full sound from the five-piece ensemble. The second movement is slower and more thoughtful in character, as could be deduced from the heading, which says Time Past: Memories, Sadness, Nostalgia. Following the classical pattern, the third movement, entitled Time Present: No Time! No Time! No Time! is a kind of scherzo, brash and rhythmic in style. Great precision is needed in fitting the jig-saw-like rhythmic elements together. The finale Time Future: Hope, Faith is lively and energetic in style, creating a rousing finish. Although brass quintets rely heavily on playing arrangements, it is also important to play original works. This work will provide a welcome addition to that original repertoire." – Stephen Wick, September 1994

Biography

Danson, Alan

Alan Danson's studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London were in Horn, Piano and Orchestration. After leaving college in 1974, he worked as a freelance horn player in West End shows, with Ballet companies, Symphony Orchestras and studios, whilst retaining his interest in composition. He has directed the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in commercial work, worked as an arranger for BBC TV and composed for TV commercials. He is also involved in musical education. His development as a composer was as a result of his work experience in studying scores, observing compositional techniques whilst playing and directing groups, and composing for various musical combinations. See www.sounddimensionsmusic.com