Grace Valley Overture [Alf:00-36675]

This energetic overture opens strongly with the low brass presenting a melodic arpeggio motive that recurs throughout the A section of the piece. The B section provides an excellent contrast with an expressive presentation by the woodwinds leading to a sensitive chorale setting. With shifting minor and major modes, the section builds with the brass before ending in a tranquil manner. A repeat of the opening section leads to a dynamic coda, bringing the piece to an exciting conclusion. "This is well written educational material that plays at the more technical end of this grade level." -The Instrumentalist