Hear a Sample:
The title of this progressive work for wind ensemble occurred to me after having composed the piece. It seemed appropriate for the dense harmonies and slow, heavy rhythms. The middle section - regrettably not heard in the recorded sample - is lighter in orchestration, but it retains the thick harmonies and deliberate pace. Its syncopated lines feel curiously slow, as if carved from rock.
Flutes 1, 2, 3
Oboes
Clarinets 1, 2, 3
Bassoons
Alto Saxophones 1, 2, 3
Tenor Saxophones
Horns 1, 2, 3
Trumpets 1, 2 (solo feature)
Trombones 1, 2 (sectional feature)
Tuba
Timpani
Percussion 1, 2: Snare Drum,
Bass Drum, Sus. Cym., Tam-Tam,
Vibraphone (playable with two
mallets, easier with four)
While not difficult technically, good ensemble and excellent counting will be necessary. Iron Ore Melody is an excellent choice for an advanced high school or university wind ensemble.