Vanquish for Trombone Octet

Instrumentation: Trombone Octet

Duration: 7’30”

Purchase – IM Brassworks

Program Note:

Vanquish depicts a battle scene through two contrasting styles. The first style is characterized by triumphant-sounding modal harmony and pulsating rhythmic energy, meant to portray the intensity of battle. The second style features a slower, more sentimental melody, which represents the reflection of what they might be fighting for. The two styles are first introduced in isolation, but later work together to lead to the climax of the piece: the victory of the battle. The piece ends with a final statement of the sentimental melody in a new key, representing the reality of achieving what they’ve always been fighting for. This piece was selected as the winner of the Third Coast Trombone Choir Call for Scores in 2014.