| General Comments: | Like most of the music of Shostakovich, this piece is rhythmically driving. The first movement, "Flourish and Dance Music," has an eighth-note ostinato primarily in the bass voices. There is a nice cornet solo that will challenge technical ability. The second movement, "Funeral March," is a slow processional with a quarter-note ostinato that adds to the procession effect. The melody is mainly in the upper woodwinds. The melody is surprisingly active rhythmically. The third movement, "Pantomime of the Actors," is a fast active movement that gives all of the instruments a chance to play the melody. The melody is identified by a beat of sixteenth notes followed by two eighth notes. This short motive is passed around immitating the actors at the end of a play. |
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