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.

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.

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