Triumph and Tradition

TRIUMPH AND TRADITION is written in a neo-romantic style, a mode request by the commissioner Dr. Revelli, who stated that the work should be "ala Verdi, Elsa (a reference to Elsa's Procession to the Cathedral), ma non Boulez!"  To that end, the composition is unabashedly dramatic, while at the same time containing long flowing lyric lines.  The work is in three sections beginning with a flourish followed by a simple statement of the principal hymn-like theme.  A substantial development section ensues largely built upon the opening three notes of the flourish.  The hymn-like theme reappears and proceeds to build to a dramatic, yet noble, climax making use of highly embellished figures in every section of the band.  Commissioned by the University of Michigan Band Alumni Association to Dr. William D. Revelli's fifty years of service to the University, with the premiere taking place on November 2, 1985, with Dr. Revelli conducting the University of Michigan Symphony Band.