Hey Folks,

It is great to have been invited back to conduct the Recorder Society!  I have been looking forward to coming and working with you all again.  And I understand from last time that there was a definite appreciation for some of the jazz pieces that I lead you through.  I found a few more things this time that I think would be interesting; arrangements by Stan Davis, that are fairly familiar jazzy/pop tunes from the early 20th Century.  One is a George Gershwin favorite called Fascinating Rhythm.  This will be for SATB and all parts will have their moment to shine.  The other piece is written by Ager and Yellen called Ain't She Sweet.  This arrangement is for AATB and although the first alto has some technique stretching, everybody's part has plenty of meat to keep us busy.  I also have a Latin surprise that I think you will get a kick out of.

I am going to start our session with some great short movements from the Bach Cantatas.  I thought it would be cool to revisit some interesting Bach harmony, and excellent counterpoint writing that will get our minds and hearts going into the evening.  I think that these will be good warm-ups for us as they are chorale settings but with a little extra rhythmical movement.  Of course, Bach is always a challenge, but these settings will allow us to get down to business pretty quick.

I love Bach because his music always makes instant sense.  And I have to pair Bach with some jazz because of some interesting similarities.  First of all, swing is a common factor.  Bach would have definitely loved hanging out at 20th-century jazz jam sessions.  The lilt of his phrasing just sways and swings, not to mention that his improvisations would have been just as hip and refreshing as it was back then.  The other really big similarity is the use of harmony.  Bach's harmonic palate is just beautiful.  Does one ever get tired of listening to all of those colors so creatively placed?  Bach and Charlie Parker would have been swapping jazz licks because each had such cutting edge harmony.

I am looking forward to seeing you all again and feel the positively radiating energy from such a fabulous group of recorder enthusiasts.  I would take another moment to point out that I am living in Portland now and looking for some inspired minds to mold.  You can contact me at blu_n_bru@mac.com to arrange lessons or ensemble coachings.

Take care and see you Friday!

Bryce Peltier