Richard L. Saucedo

Richard takes the listener and performer on an extended journey through various mood styles in this impressive work for mature ensembles. The stately opening strains gather momentum and intensity, leading to a fast-paced section that features intertwining solo and small group fragments passed throughout the texture. An overall soaring theme adds a tone of triumph and grandeur throughout, and the final push to the end is both exhilarating and rhythmically dynamic. Dur: 6:50

The Cambrian period of our planet’s geological history (roughly 500 million years ago) saw an explosion of plant and animal diversity evolving into many of the complex life forms familiar today. Richard Saucedo gives us an “explosion” of musical forms and surprises in this fast-paced and powerful work for mature bands. A recurring mallet and timpani pattern provides unity amidst a diverse musical palette that ranges from jazzy to celebratory. The sudden appearance of the familiar hymn “For the Beauty of the Earth” is both stunning and dramatic as it ties the entire work together. Wonderfully creative! Dur: 3:10

Taking a stately lyric approach to this well-known English carol, Richard Saucedo has crafted a unique and rewarding setting with beautiful melodic lines and lush harmonies. Includes a section for optional recorders for an added special touch.

Commissioned by the Owen J. Roberts Middle School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, the piece honors the school’s namesake, Supreme Court Justice Roberts who served from 1930-1945. Composed using a single tempo Fanfare for Justice provides a nice feature spot for the entire percussion section along with variety in scoring from chamber-like passages to dynamic full band statements. Dur: 2:40