Variations on a Marching Tune, Zachary Docter Concert Band Grade 3.5

Bands and audiences alike are sure to enjoy these fun and exciting variations on original theme. A simple marching tune transforms into a Copland-style Rodeo treatment, a beautiful lament and, finally returns in a dazzling finale.

Program Notes

I began writing this concert band piece after I finished working on a set of English folk song variations. Although the theme for this piece was written to sound like a folk tune, the melody is original. The initial statement of the theme is in the form of a march complete with military-like snare drum rhythms. The marching theme then gives way to the fast first variation which has an Americana western-esque sound. This is followed by a slow lyrical variation which turns the marching theme into a beautiful but melancholy lament. The fast and rhythmic third variation finally restates the theme in a grand chorale before the piece comes to a close in a big finish.