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A-Soalin'[3:45] 1/1*-2-2-2, 2-2-2-1, timp+3, keyboard hp, SATB chorus, strings
Commissioned by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. A bouncy Celtic-folk presentation of the traditional English tune, and a nice feature for violin (fiddle) and piccolo (penny whistle) soloists with chorus and orchestra. The solo piccolo opens the piece, soon joined by pizzicato strings and the violin soloist, setting up the chorus entry. Throughout the work the soloists interject, and it becomes a quodlibet with melodies from "Masters in This Hall" and "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" appearing as well. Lighthearted percussion provides the rhythmic drive, and the chorus receives ample spotlight with contrapuntal passages in addition to presenting the well-known melody. |