Capriccio

A whimsical composition. the overall structure of the work is related to sonata-rondo form. Following an introduction, the frolicking Exposition unfolds only to be interrupted by a chorale-like episode followed by a paraphrase of the opening “thematic” material. The development section consists primarily of cadenzas for the percussionist, trombonist, and clarinetist respectively. (The cadenzas are separated by colorful transitional passages.) The clarinet cadenza is abruptly interrupted by the percussionist and trombonist leading to a section in Dixieland style. The composition concludes with a Recapitulation and Coda. Capriccio subtly pokes fun at the pyrotechnical characteristics exhibited by many contemporary compositions and the same time hints at a parallel with similar elements in Dixieland and jazz. The work was premiered in at the University of South Florida in Tampa by the composer on trombone, clarinetist Judy E. Buss, and percussionist Robert McCormick on November 24, 1981. The instrumentation includes 5 tom-toms, snare drum, tambourine, suspended cymbals, cowbells, triangle, tam-tam, bell tree, one timpani, vibraphone and bells. “Frolicking and freewheeling with 12-tone Dixieland to boot!” – The London Times