String Music (including guitar and harp)

String solos, unaccompanied
String with one other instrument
String ensembles
Strings in chamber music - trios
Strings in chamber music - quartets
Strings in chamber music - quintets and larger
Recording

String solos, unaccompanied

   THE GUITARIST’S DAY (1996) for solo guitar by Roger C. Vogel. The three witty movements were inspired by the composer’s observations of guitar students at the University of Georgia. Late Afternoon on the Steps depicts a guitarist warming up and practicing for a lesson. Midnight Variations represents a late-night improvisation, and Monday Morning alternates between the frantic panic of oversleeping and calm daydreaming.  (16’15”) Grade IV-V. B908  $8.95  To order
The Guitarist’s Day Sound Samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt, Movement 2.mp3 (1005KB);
Excerpt, Movement 3.mp3 (874K)

String with one other instrument

New! ALPINE SPRING (2008) for flute and harp by Howard J. Buss was composed for Italian flutist Elena Cecconi. Its picturesque Italian subtitle, Riflessi sul lago alpino, translates as “Alpine Lake Reflections” and is suggestive of the glorious awakening of Spring in the region immediately south of the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy. As one listens to this music it is easy to imagine the glistening reflections of the dramatic Dolomite peaks and vibrant green spring foliage in the lake. Alpine Spring is divided into two main parts. The first is introspective and at times mysterious. The subdued quality of the music coupled with the beautiful melodic lines suggests the alluring enchantment of dawn at the lake. The festive second part is in an ABA-Coda format and mixes Buss’ unique style of soaring lyricism with crisp, energetic rhythms and colorful harmonies. The B section is developmental and at one point the flutist is asked to flutter tongue, suggesting the presence of birds. Alpine Spring received its world premier on May 10, 2008 in the Sala del Ridotto del Teatro Municipale in Piacenza, Italy by flutist Elena Cecconi and harpist Paola Devoti. (11'30") Grade V-VI. B414 $16.50 To order
Alpine Spring score samples: Excerpt 1.pdf ((84KB); Excerpt 2.pdf (84KB); Excerpt 3.pdf (88KB)
Alpine Spring sound samples: Excerpt 1.mp3 (1.4MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1.2MB);
Excerpt 3.mp3 (1.4MB); Excerpt 4 (ending).mp3 (968KB)
This work is recorded on the CD Flauto e arpa by Elena Cecconi and Paola Devoti on the Bottega Discantica (Italy) label BDI 187. This CD is imported by and available from Brixton Publications CD-113.

   FABLES FROM AESOP (2001)by Howard J. Buss, in 5 entertaining movements: The Dog Who Chased a Lion, The Astronomer, The Camel Who Wanted Horns, The Crow and the Pitcher, and The Rabbits and the Frogs. Each movement begins with a performer reciting the corresponding fable. The colorful and engaging music is idiomatic and sophisticated, yet it is accessible because of its strong programmatic nature. This piece is a hit with all types of audiences, including those comprised of children! It makes a great concert feature and also is highly effective on out-reach concerts in the schools. (13’) Grade V. In three versions: for violin and French horn B371 $12.95; for violin and trombone (or bassoon) B372 $12.95 To order;
version for violin and cello B373 $12.95 To order “Buss employs a variety of meters, tonalities, and an equality of parts to set this duet apart from other instrumental duos of mixed descent. This is a captivating achievement of great variety and craftsmanship.” - reviewed by Joel Elias, California State University, Sacramento in the July 2005 International Trombone Association Journal, Vol. 33, No. 3
Fables from Aesop for violin and cello score samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.pdf (2 pages, 188KB); Excerpt, Movement 2.pdf (2 pages, 176KB);
Excerpt, Movement 3.pdf (2 pages, 200KB); Excerpt, Movement 4.pdf (2 pages, 216KB);
Excerpt, Movement 5.pdf (2 pages, 268KB)
Fables from Aesop for trombone or bassoon and violin score samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.pdf (2 pages, 192KB); Excerpt, Movement 2.pdf (2 pages, 200KB);
Excerpt, Movement 3.pdf (2 pages, 180KB); Excerpt, Movement 4.pdf (2 pages, 228KB);
Excerpt, Movement 5.pdf (2 pages, 280KB)
Fables from Aesop for French horn and violin score samples (transposed score):
Excerpt, Movement 1.pdf (2 pages, 196KB); Excerpt, Movement 2.pdf (2 pages, 200KB);
Excerpt, Movement 3.pdf (2 pages, 260KB); Excerpt, Movement 4.pdf (2 pages, 256KB);
Excerpt, Movement 5.pdf (2 pages, 284KB)

    PHOENIX (1986) by Haskell Small. This dynamic duo was inspired by the story of the Phoenix in ancient Egyptian mythology. ”Sparkling, a fabulous showpiece!” Haskell Small has been hailed by the Washington Post for his "rich imagination and assured mastery." Recorded by Virginia Nanzetta, flute and Sydney Harth, violin on the CD “25 Preludes” on Northeastern Records Classical Arts NR-242-CD. (10’30”) Grade V.
- version for flute and violin Sound Sample.mp3 (800K) B601  $12.95 To order
- version for flute and cello B602 $12.95 To order

    RHAPSODY AND ALLEGRO (2000) for piccolo and harp by Robert Frank. The first movement alternates between free, cadenza-like material and metered, coordinated passages. The second is playful with soaring, lyrical melodies. Commissioned for Diane Boyd, premiered at the 2000 N.F.A. Convention in Columbus, Ohio.  (8’)   Grade V. B712  $20.00 To order
Rhapsody and Allegro Sound Samples:
Movement 1, Excerpt.mp3 (1MB); Movement 2, Excerpt (the ending).mp3 (1MB)

New! SEASIDE REFLECTIONS (1993) flute and harp by Howard J. Buss captures the serenity of musing by the sea. On the preface page to the score is printed the following free verse by the composer. It is suggested that the poem be narrated immediately before the performance and/or printed in the program notes to set the mood for the music:: “On the shore of eternity swirling currents of liquid chaos gather for and disperse as foam. As rock wears to sand all dissonance transforms to serenity. Time presses no longer.” Dedicated to Brian Luce and Carrol McLaughlin. This is a memorable recital piece with real audience appeal. (7’) Grade III. B338H $10.00  To order

New! SEASIDE REFLECTIONS (1993) oboe and harp by Howard J. Buss captures the serenity of musing by the sea. On the preface page to the score is printed the following free verse by the composer. It is suggested that the poem be narrated immediately before the performance and/or printed in the program notes to set the mood for the music:: “On the shore of eternity swirling currents of liquid chaos gather for and disperse as foam. As rock wears to sand all dissonance transforms to serenity. Time presses no longer.” This is a memorable recital piece with real audience appeal. (7’) Grade III. B338AH $10.00  To order

   TIME CAPSULE (2002) by Howard Buss is an entertaining sonatina in four movements: Daybreak, Chorale, Rendezvous, and Homeward Bound and is both fun to play and listen to. The first movement has a frolicking and optimistic character. Chorale breaks with the traditional structure of the chorale in that each phrase gets a measure longer. The harmonies of the second movement contain some spicy dissonances as well. Rendezvous, is in a lilting 6/8 and really "works up a lather" as it progresses to an exciting climax. The final movement, Homeward Bound, begins with a fanfare-like passage that gives way to a spirited dance characterized by an intriguing interplay between the two instruments. (7’) Grade IV.
- Version for violin and B-flat clarinet B351 $8.95 To order
- Version for two violins B352 $8.95 To order

   TWILIGHT REFLECTIONS (2001) for flute and guitar by Roger Vogel, written for the Helios Duo.The lyrical nature of the music suggests images of fading light after sunset reflected on water or glass, and also refers to evening thoughts, perhaps at times dramatic ones. (8’) Grade V. B919  $10.00 To order
Twilight Reflections Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1(the opening).mp3 (1MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1.2MB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (919KB)

   TWO POEMS (1992) for flute and guitar by Lee Heritage was inspired by two poems by Emily Dickinson: This - is the land - the Sunset washes - and Wild Nights. Winner of the 1998 Newly-Published Music Contest of the National Flute Association. (6’30”) Grade IV. B722  $12.00  To order
Two Poems Sound Samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt, Movement 2.mp3 (995KB)

   WAVE TRAIN (1990) by Howard J. Buss. The interaction of the lyrical melodies in this beautiful and frequently performed work is reminiscent of the patterns created by intermingling waves on the surface of water. Recorded on the HoneyRock label by the McCormick Duo. This is an attractive feature number which also works well as a contest piece. (6’15”) Grade IV-V. version for flute and guitar B345  $10.00  To order

   WINTER SUN (1996) for flute and guitar by Roger C. Vogel. This charming work reflects the hope radiating from the sun on a long Winter’s day. (6’) Grade IV. B907  $10.00  To order
Winter Sun Sound Samples: Excerpt 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (988KB)

   THE WORLD WITHIN (1999) for clarinet and cello by Howard J. Buss. In recent years this American composer has written a number of works which address the human condition in our rapidly changing, technology-laden society. The World Within is a musical metaphor reflecting an individual's yearning to be reconnected with his spiritual past while at the same time endeavoring to be effective in business and social interactions in the modern day world. While writing this work Buss was fascinated by how an acquaintance was resolving this dichotomy in his own life. Six days a week he works 10-hour days as a businessman, immersed in, and sometimes overwhelmed by, the fast-paced world of business. Yet without exception, he spends the entire day every Saturday at his Synagogue in worship, studying the Talmud, following ancient rituals, and reverently assisting the Rabbi in his sacred duties. In this work the 2 worlds, that of one's modern secular existence and that of one's spiritual heritage, are represented musically by two markedly different compositional procedures. The former is represented with a highly-structured, lyrical 12-tone style. The latter is more spontaneous and is influenced by Jewish musical idioms. In the slow, mysterious opening section these styles are juxtaposed; however, as the composition develops they become synthesized in a thoroughly integrated manner. This is an significant work that is meaningful to perform, and enjoyable (an thought provoking) to listen to. (10’) Grade V. B367  $16.50  To order
The World Within Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1.mp3 (917KB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (922KB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (1.1MB)
The World Within was written for clarinetist Keith Koons, and cellist, Melissa Kraut. It was premiered by these artists on February 6, 2000 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

   ATLANTIC LEGEND (1983) by David Alpher evokes images of the craggy, rock bound coast of New England and the timeless lore of the North Atlantic. Although the instrumentation suggests a Baroque continuo sound, the musical material is exclusively 20th Century. (14’30”) Grade V.
version for viola, cello, and harpsichord B101  $22.00  To order
Atlantic Legend (viola/cello/harpsichord version) Sound Samples:
Sound Sample 1.mp3 (989K) Sound Sample 2.mp3 (1MB) (Recorded on Ongaku Records #024-112)
version for flute, viola, and harpsichord B102  $22.00  To order
Atlantic Legend (flute/viola/harpsichord version) Sound Samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt, Movement 2.mp3 (978KB)

   AWAKENING by Howard Buss is a charming, soulful composition which is strongly influenced by the Jewish Klezmer idiom. The music moves from a mystical, contemplative opening to an energetic finale. Color is added to the ensemble with the use of wind chimes, finger cymbals, and finger rolls on the body of the string bass. This work is a memorable addition to any recital, and because of its spiritual nature, makes a wonderful musical offering in a house of worship. (7’)  Grade IV.
- version for alto flute, guitar, and string bass  B307A  $12.95  To order
- version for clarinet, guitar and string bass  B307  $10.00  To order
Awakening (clarinet, guitar, and string bass version) Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1, the opening.mp3 (1.2MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1.2MB); Excerpt 3 (the end).mp3 (1.1MB)
Awakening for flute, guitar, and string bass score sample (score in C):
Opening.pdf (3 pages, 389KB) - Will open with Acrobat Reader

   CONSENSUS FENCES (1991) for flute/piccolo, clarinet/bass clarinet, and string bass by Erik Lund. This energetic trio is a “must” for the advanced new music ensemble.Sound Sample 1.mp3 (976K) Sound Sample 2.mp3 (1MB) Recorded on Opus One Records: CD164 by the Ciosone Trio. (10’30”)  Grade VI. B401  $22.00 To order

   THE DEVIL’S SONGBOOK “Eight Irreverent Songs” (1993) for medium or high voice, bassoon (or cello or contrabass) and piano by Roger C. Vogel is based upon humorous texts which explore the nature of various aspects of human nature. The songs are entitled Of Politicians (lyrics by William Shakespeare and Hilaire Belloc), Of Businessmen (lyrics by Mark Twain), Of Critics and Music (lyrics by Robert F. Murray, Charles Lamb, and the composer), Of Vanity (lyrics by James Thomson), Of Attorneys (lyrics derived from an anonymous quote on the Headstone of Mr. Jonathan Gill, Esq. who died February 6, 1751), Of the Media (lyrics by Humbert Wolfe), Of Vanity (anonymous lyrics), and Of Celebration (lyrics by Dorothy Parker).(20’15”) Grade V. B901 $30.00 To order
The Devil’s Song Book Sound Samples:
Of Politicians, Excerpt 1.mp3 (1MB);
Of Attorneys, Excerpt 2 .mp3 (1.2MB;
Of Businessmen, Excerpt 3.mp3 (961KB);
Of the Media, Excerpt 4.mp3 (986KB);
Of Critics and Music, Excerpt 5.mp3 (836KB);
Of Virtue, Excerpt 6.mp3 (1.1MB);
Of Vanity, Excerpt 7.mp3 (1.1MB);
Of Celebration, Excerpt 8.mp3 (1MB)

  IN THE MIRROR OF TIME (2003) for clarinet, violin and cello by Howard Buss in two engaging movements: Recollections and Moving On. The first is lyrical and sweet and is permeated by a nostalgic ambience. The second retains some of the sentimentality of the first, but is more animated and pushes forward suggesting the relentless progression of time. Each movement is approximately 5 minutes in duration. (10’) Grade V-VI. B389 $18.50 To order
In the Mirror of Time Sound Samples:
Sample Movement 1A.mp3 (1.1MB) Sample Movement 1B.mp3 (450K)
Sample Movement 2A.mp3 (1.2MB) Sample Movement 2B.mp3 (1MB)

New! LOVE LETTERS (2002) for high voice (soprano or tenor), violin, and piano by Roger C. Vogel is an entertaining and memorable song cycle based on texts selected to represent the many different aspects of the universal emotion of love: from longing, exuberance, excitement, and playfulness to sorrow and despair. The individual songs may be performed individually. (45’) Grade IV-V. B925 $48.50 To order
1. Your Letter Moved Me 2:29
2. I Lie Awake 3:52
3. Dear Miss West Forty-seventh Street 1:49
4. My Dearest Nell (voice and piano) 7:45
5. The French Ladies 3:39
6. My Darling Dear, Delightful Ringo 2:57
7. Have You Heard That I Love You (voice and violin) 3:07
8. Alas! I have Suffered Your Scorn! 11:36
9. Everything Measurable Passes 1:45
10. Interlude (violin and piano) 2:59
11. Adieu, I Seal My Letter 4:36
Love Letters is recorded on the OASIS CD Love Letters (ORCV4000), available from Brixton Publications CD-109.

   REMEMBRANCES (2000) by Howard J. Buss is a lyrical, enjoyable work written in an appealing modern style. It was written immediately following the death of the composer's 97-year-old grandmother. Rather than being a somber memorial or musical epitaph, this charming and melodious composition is a celebration of life. The character of the opening section is contemplative. Gradually the music becomes more animated and Remembrances finishes in a spirit of buoyant optimism. (8’) Grade IV.
- Version for flute, cello, and piano  B366  $18.50  To order
- Version for trumpet, cello, and piano  B364  $18.50  To order
- Version for clarinet, cello, and piano  B365  $18.50  To order

   REVERIE (1992) for clarinet, viola, and piano by Howard J. Buss. This beautiful, neo-impressionistic work was commissioned by Luis Rossi and the Trio de Buenos Aires. It was premiered by this ensemble in Madrid, Spain at the Circulo de Bellas Artes on February 20, 1994. Reverie is a sophisticated work, rewarding for the performers and audience alike. As the title suggests, the music is contemplative. The writing is idiomatic and imaginative. This composition is a "must". (10’30”)  Grade V.  B335  $18.50  To order
Reverie Sound Samples: Excerpt 1.mp3 (1.1MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1MB);
Excerpt 3.mp3 (1.1MB); Excerpt 4.mp3 (1.2MB)

   TENNESSEE SUITE (2001) for flute, viola, and piano by Howard J. Buss is based upon the composer’s visit to the Smoky Mountains, in four beautiful and picturesque movements: Mystic Dawn, Treetop Capers, Cades Cove, and The Trail to Abrams Falls. Written for Shelley Binder. (13’) Grade V.  B370  $22.00  To order
Tennessee Suite Sound Samples:
Excerpt, Movement 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt, Movement 2 (the ending).mp3 (592K);
Excerpt, Movement 3.mp3 (1.2MB); Excerpt, Movement 4.mp3 (1.2MB)

   TRIO for flute, cello, and piano by Haskell Small is divided into three exciting movements: Allegro non-troppo, Andante, and Allegro molto energico. Haskell Small has been hailed by the Washington Post for his "rich imagination and assured mastery." Recorded on the CD 25 Preludes: A Musical Odyssey (Northeastern Classical Arts NR 242-CD) by Virginia Nanzetta, flute; Douglas Wolters, cello; and Haskell Small, piano. (10”) Grade V. B604  $18.50  To order
Trio Sound Samples:
Sample Movement 1.mp3 (1MB) Sample Movement 2.mp3 (942K) Sample Movement 3.mp3 (1009K)

Strings in chamber music - quartets

   EINE KLEINE SNAILMUSIK for high voice (soprano or tenor), trumpet, cello, and piano by Roger C. Vogel is a humorous setting of May Sarton’s poem of the same name. Theatrical gestures are used in this lighthearted and playful work. In the preface to the score thecomposer writes, "The humor in this work will be greatly enhanced by setting a lighthearted mood before beginning the work and by appropriate gestures throughout." The vocal range is from d below the treble staff to Ab above the staff. (8’) Grade V.  B912  $18.50 To order
Eine Kleine Snailmusik Sound Sample: Excerpt.mp3 (1MB)

   INTO EACH LIFE (1997) for flute, cello, piano and one percussion by Howard J. Buss was commissioned by The Florida Flute Association and the Brannen-Cooper Fund as a tribute to the renown flutist Albert Tipton. This colorful work is cast in two main sections, the first of which juxtaposes lyrical and turbulent passages. The final section takes the form of a joyous fugue. The instrumentation includes vibes, orch. bells, cymbals, tam-tam, bongos, wood block and tambourine. (11’) Grade V. B358  $26.50  To order
Score Sample.pdf file (will open with Acrobat Reader)
Percussion Set-up Chart.pdf file (will open with Acrobat Reader)
Into Each Life Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1.mp3 (1.2MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1.1MB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (1.1MB)

   LAS MENINAS: VARIATIONS (1985) by David Alpher was inspired by the visual variations that Pablo Picasso painted in 1957 on Velasquez’ 1656 masterpiece commonly known as “Las Meninas.” Several different musical styles are employed during this Theme and 21 Variations in a manner analogous to the stylistic changes Picasso effected from one painting to the next. (16') Grade V-VI.
- version for oboe, cello, guitar and piano  B104  $26.00  To order
Las Meninas: Variations (ensemble version) Sound Samples: Excerpt 1.mp3 (893KB);
Excerpt 2.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (801KB); Excerpt 4.mp3 (1MB)

  TRADITIONS (1990) for violin, clarinet, guitar and string bass by Howard J. Buss. was commissioned by the Luski Endowment for Viva Klezmer! as part of the nationwide 50th Anniversary Celebration of the American Music Center. This composition is a synthesis of traditional Jewish Klezmer music and elements of Western concert music. From the ornate opening cadenza (based upon the well-known "Shalom Alechem" melody to the jubilant, energetic "freilach" which concludes the work, Traditions spans a wide range of emotions. (6’30”) Grade IV. B340 $16.50  To order
Traditions Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (970KB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (1MB)

   TRIBUTE TO KEROUAC for clarinet, tenor sax, piano, and string bass by David Alpher was inspired by the work, life, and times of Jack Kerouac, “King of the Beat Generation.” Cast in seven entertaining movements, this significant composition is hugely influenced by jazz. In the preface to the score the composer writes: "Kerouac demonstrated the epic contradiction of America: on the one hand its wild energy, joy of life, and expansiveness; on the other, its tendency to self-destruct. Tribute to Kerouac is my musical response to, and commemoration of, this important American writer who liked to describe himself as a 'jazz.poet.'" This significant work is recorded on Ongaku Records CD#024-112. (17’) Grade V. B110  $32.00  To order
Tribute to Kerouac Sound Samples:
I. American Nocturne Sample.mp3 (779K)    II. Movin’ On Sample.mp3 (782K)
III. Remembered Sample.mp3 (982K)           IV. Intermezzo Sample.mp3 (693K)
V. Beat Scene Sample.mp3 (996K)               VI. Urgency Sample.mp3 (916K)
VII. Epilogue Sample.mp3 (919K)

    THE WALRUS AND THE CARPENTER (1989) For narrator, flute, viola, and piano by David Alpher. Based upon Lewis Carroll’s well-known poem from Through the Looking Glass (1871) this entertaining composition transforms the familiar words from their Victorian and child-like context to a very different sound world primarily influenced by jazz. Finalist in the 1996 Newly-Published Music Competition of the National Flute Association.  (15’)  Grade V. B105  $28.50  To order
The Walrus and the Carpenter Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1.mp3 (993KB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1MB); Excerpt 3.mp3 (858KB)

Strings in chamber music - quintets and larger

New! THE HEAVENS AWAKEN (2008) for solo bassoon and string quartet by Howard J. Buss is dedicated to bassoonist Arnold Irchai. The structure of this exciting work is highly symbolic in that it was inspired by the details of the visions of the priest Ezekiel while living with the Jewish exiles in Babylon. Ezekiel saw a powerful, glowing, and complex entity appear in the sky out of a “great cloud.” He believed it to be an appearance of God: “Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man.” (Ezekiel 1:5 KJV) The formal scheme of The Heavens Awaken is programmatic in the sense that the sequence of events described in the vision is musically represented in a general way. The serene opening gradually becomes mysterious and gives way to a series of passages that serve as an ominous portent to the arrival of the airborne object. The 4 string instruments, each with 4 strings, 4 tuning pegs, and human-like body shape symbolize the 4 “creatures” of the vision. The bassoon represents the “voice” of what Ezekiel believes is God. It should be noted that many people also have interpreted his vision as a sighting of a UFO, described with the insights and vocabulary of the day. “This significant new addition to the bassoon and string quartet literature is a “must for the advanced bassoonist!”  (12’30”)  Grade V-VI.  B415  $28.50  To order
The Heavens Awaken sound samples: Excerpt 1.mp3 (1.4MB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1.4MB); Exerpt 3.mp3 (1.1MB)

   MILLENNIUM VISIONS (1999) for clarinet and string quartet by Howard J. Buss in three captivating movements: First Dawn, Meditation, and Quest, was composed in the latter months of 1999 when most of the world was looking forward with eager anticipation to the turn of the Century, and in many minds, the Millennium. The conflict between man’s desire to “progress” in our technological age and his desire to connect to his spiritual past is symbolically represented by an array of musical styles and compositional procedures. The modern world is suggested by passages influenced by popular music styles and 12-tone technique. The longing for spirituality is manifested in the poignant lyricism of the work and its reliance on classical formal structures. Commissioned by ClarinetFest 2000, premiered by Tom Martin (Boston Symphony). (20’) Grade V.  B368  $46.00  To order
Sound Sample 1.mp3 (1MB) Sound Sample 2.mp3 (1MB) Sound Sample 3.mp3 (1MB)

   QUINTESSENCE (1982) for flute, clarinet, violin, viola, and cello by Howard J. Buss is cast in in three movements: The first is characterized by an elaborate contrapuntal dialog between the flute and clarinet over an energetic ostinato in the strings. The second is mystical in nature, and in the third (entitled Energetic) a central section featuring the cello is surrounded by sections with exciting, driving ostinati and intricate counterpoint. (13’)  Grade V. B334 $25.00 To order

    SHORT STORY (1980) for flute, clarinet, oboe, cello, and piano by Haskell Small was commissioned by the Georgetown Symphony. The thematic material in this entertaining work is mostly of a lyrical nature juxtaposed with a "chase" motif and several sections of a gently jazzy flavor. It is essentially in sonata form, with an introductory recitative-like section that repeats in the middle and at the end of the composition. A short fugue based upon the main lyrical theme precedes the ending. Recorded on 4Tay Records CD #4020 “The Twisted Pine Branch.” Haskell Small has been hailed by the Washington Post for his "rich imagination and assured mastery." (10’30”) Grade V-VI. B603  $22.00 To order
Short Story Sound Samples: Sample 1.mp3 (1MB) Sample 2.mp3 (797K)

   SINFONIETTA (1990) for string quintet (2-1-1-1) or string orchestra by Howard J. Buss was commissioned by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the American Music Center. This exciting work is characterized by vibrant colors and driving rhythms. (6’30”) Grade V.
-Version for string quintet  B336  $16.50  To order  
- Version for string orchestra  B337  $28.50 To order
Sinfonietta Sound Samples:
Excerpt 1.mp3 (914KB); Excerpt 2.mp3 (1MB)

    TRACES (1987) for flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, violin and cello by Erik Lund addresses the individual and collective aspects of a group contending with a common tragedy - realized through various groupings within a quintet and changing compositional procedures. Winner of the ‘88 National Composers Competition, recorded on Opus One Records: CD164. (12’40”) Grade VI. B403  $28.50 To order
Traces Sound Samples:
Sample 1.mp3 (1MB) Sample 2.mp3 (1MB) Sample 3.mp3 (989K)

   WHERE NOW RUSTS THE IRON? (1994) by Howard J. Buss is a dramatic tribute to the composer’s grandfather who, like many ironworkers in his day, worked under brutal conditions with the dream of making life better for future generations. “A moving work touching our communal soul.” (8’) Grade IV-V. 
Version for high voice & piano  B346  $12.50  Questions? To order
Version for high voice, flute, cello, and six percussion  B346E  $42.50  Questions? To order
Percussion distribution: Percussion 1: Timpani (4), orchestra bells, tubular bells (shared with perc. 2), and finger cymbals; Percussion 2: two anvils (metal pipes may be substituted), and tubular bells (shared with perc. 1: Percussion 3: Xylophone, and suspended cymbal; Percussion 4: Vibraphone and suspended cymbal; Percussion 5: marimba; Percussion 6: two suspended cymbals, tam-tam, wind chimes, and bell tree.
Percussion Set-up Chart .pdf file (will open with Acrobat Reader)
Text:
“Where Now Rusts the Iron?”
Homes now stand where once the foundry coughed.
Countless tons of iron -
wheels and pans,
boilers and pipes,
latches and plates.
Countless train loads of hardware
shrieked from the pounding, grimy world within.

Iron converted from life itself,
energy given form.
Precious moments, days, and years
poured into molds and sealed
amid the ashes and dust,
always ashes and dust,
suspended in life-stealing air.

The graves of the workers overlook this place,
their fam’lies spread afar.
Season come and go, yet frozen in mem’ry
are the days of youth spent in toil, hope, and purpose.
Where now rusts the iron once cast by pounding hearts,
releasing the dreams, the souls,
invested in tough, cold metal?

The foundry still stands among the houses,
coughing on smoke-laden air.
Invisible as the iron once made,
its souls as mist remains. - Howard J. Buss
Copyright © 1994 by Brixton Publications

Recording:

Imported from Bottega Discantica (Italy) BDI 188
Flauto e arpa  (Flute and harp)
Elena Cecconi, flauto (flute) - Paola Devoti, arpa (harp)
Music by Saint-Saens, Buss, Procaccini, Cataldo, Ravel, Del Re, Debussy, Piazzolla - Total playing time: 73' 30''

1 Camille Saint-Saëns - Fantaisie op. 124   15' 55''
2 Howard Buss - Alpine Spring   12' 50'' (Published by Brixton Publications, see listing above.)
3 Teresa Procaccini - Lied op. 76   5 '42''
4 Glauco Cataldo - Dallo scoglio al mare (From the sea cliff)  9 '34''
5 Maurice Ravel - Piece en forme de Habanera   3 '12''        
6 Attilio Del Re - Yom ha shoah-Rapsodia su temi Yiddish (Rhapsody on issuesYiddish)  10 '23''
7 Claude Debussy - Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un faune  10 '56''
8 Astor Piazzolla - Oblivion   4 '36''
This CD is imported from Italy by Brixton CD-113 $19.95  To order

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