Two transcriptions for brass ensemble: Herman Bellstedt’s La Coquette: Fantasia Capprisioso and Introduction and Tarantelle
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Scott R. Toth (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Edward Bach
Abstract: At the turn of the 20th century, Herman Bellstedt (1858-1926) was well-known
throughout the country as a cornet soloist and performer. Coming to the United States as
an immigrant from Germany in 1867, his father taught him to play the cornet at a young
age. Bellstedt began performing with local bands as his talents were revealed, and he
continued to become more refined as a soloist. His reputation was built on his technical
skills, and he eventually began touring throughout the country with bands of increasing
prominence. He performed with some of the most prestigious professional bands in
American history including those of Patrick S. Gilmore and John Philip Sousa, and
associated with many of the most well known cornet soloists in the United States such as
Herbert L. Clarke. Bellstedt's impeccable technique and impressive musical abilities
brought him great success in his career, but his compositional repertoire allows his
acclaim to continue.
Bellstedt's legacy continues through his compositions and his creativity and
expressiveness is continually evident in them. He demonstrated his musical prowess
throughout his repertoire by writing pieces that audiences enjoy; his works have
interesting musical direction, contrasting moods, diverse harmonic color, and impressive
technical feats. All of these attractive features make Bellstedt's cornet solos especially
popular with younger students, although many present significant technical challenges
that are better suited for more accomplished musicians. Two pieces in particular--La
Coquette: Fantasia Capprisioso and Introduction and Tarantelle--exhibit the depth of
Bellstedt's musicianship. Interesting musical features such as starkly contrasting sections
and lively dance forms make these works ideal candidates for transcription as they retain
the interest of the listener throughout and finish in grand style.
In this project, La Coquette: Fantasia Capprisioso and Introduction and Tarantelle
were transcribed for brass ensemble in order to add fresh and unheard music to this
genre's repertoire. Even the most advanced performers will find difficult technical
challenges in them, but each one also provides many opportunities that can be used as
learning experiences for developing musicians, both for the soloist and ensemble players.
Because the pieces were transcribed in their original keys, the original piano
accompaniment can be used for rehearsals with a soloist as preparations for ensemble
accompaniment are made.
Two transcriptions for brass ensemble: Herman Bellstedt’s La Coquette: Fantasia Capprisioso and Introduction and Tarantelle
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Created on 12/1/2008
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2008
- Keywords
- Bellstedt, Brass ensemble, Coquette, Tarantelle, Transcription, Trumpet
- Subjects
- Bellstedt, Herman.
- Trumpet music, Arranged.
- Trumpet music.
- Arrangement (Music)
- Brass ensembles.