Concert Band Grade: 2.5

John Barnes Chance composed his landmark work for band, Incantation and Dance, in 1960 while in residence at the high school in Greensboro, North Carolina. Commissioned by the Union County (NC) Honor Band, Prelude and Pursuit pays tribute to this important composition and its North Carolina connection. A haunting chant-like theme played by the clarinets sets the tone for the slow section. Similar to Chance’s work, the fast section begins with percussion instruments introducing thematic elements later picked up and developed by the winds. Intensifying rhythmic elements, as well as carefully controlled random playing effects, contribute to an overall sense of excitement and anticipation. Themes are woven throughout various sections of the band before the opening chant motif makes a brief dramatic appearance near the end. A great teaching tool for young players, Prelude and Pursuit also provides a rewarding performance experience. Dur: 4:50

The centerpiece of this work for band is the memorable Appalachian folk hymn “Down to the River to Pray,” which was featured in the 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou? Interspersed with this melody is a faster original theme that provides a complementary yet contrasting tone to the emotional statements of the folk hymn. Richly scored and flowingly beautiful. Dur: 4:25 (Grade 2-1/2)