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"Autumn Leaves"

GENERAL INFORMATION
Title Autumn Leaves
ComposerJ. Cosma (arr: F.G.J. Absil)
Instrum.Concert Band
Date1999
Duration4'40
StyleUp-tempo swing (feature for Solo Trombone)
KeyGm
Meter4/4
Measures198
Tempo104 - 192 BPM
Grade4

FULL INSTRUMENTATION

A musical score excerpt
  • Piccolo, Flute 1-2, Oboe 1-2 (English Horn), Bassoon 1-2, Eb Clarinet, Bb Clarinet 1-2-3, Bass Clarinet;
  • Alto Saxophone 1-2, Tenor Saxophone 1-2, Baritone Saxophone;
  • French Horn 1-2-3-4, Trumpet 1-2-3-4, Trombone 1 (Solo, written out solo provided), Trombone 2-3-4, Baritone 1-2-3, Tuba (Eb and Bb Bass);
  • Guitar, Piano (E.Piano), Acoustic Bass or Bass Guitar, Drums;
  • Timpani, Percussion (triangle), Mallets (xylophone, vibraphone).

NOTES FOR THE PERFORMER

In Autumn leaves, the fourth part from the Seasonal Songs, cycle we arrive at autumn. From the original melody a theme was derived that shows up in the introduction as counterpoint for a classical wind quintet. The solo trombone switches into gear and starts swinging in m. 22. Supported by the rhythm section there is an ad lib solo from m. 57 onwards (this edition provides a written out template solo). The accents and backgrounds in the orchestra are all based on the fundamental autumn motif. The special chorus, starting in m. 121, highlights the brass section, with a basic setting for trumpets, trombones and tuba. The woodwinds interrupt the swing in m. 153 with a classical interpretation of the melody, and a brief sidestep to a waltz. The swinging trombone takes back control in m. 168. In the coda there is a final statement from the wind quintet, while autumn leaves are being blown off the trees by the rest of the band.

Concert performance:

This arrangement has been performed by the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy (Conductor: Peter Kleine Schaars).