Rondo for Band

With "Rondo for Band" the Moravian composer Pavel Stanek has written a refreshing and varied modern piece for wind orchestra.

In the opening, the first main theme is introduced through the various registers. The first part is then determined by the contrast between a vocal melody and powerful, interrupting interjections in the form of eighth figures (also in percussion). The flowing 3/4 time is alienated by shifts in the centre of gravity and occasionally inserted 4/4 bars. The first part increases more and more dramatically and then suddenly recedes; a short clarinet solo forms the transition to the second part, Lento rubato.

Here the second major theme is introduced in a wonderful woodwind section. The gentle melody builds up slowly and includes more and more instruments before it gently fades away again. This is followed by a rather abrupt change back to the fiery temperament of the first part, with the violent eighths. The euphoria merges into a Maestoso part, which seems very solemn above all due to its broad 3/2 time. The end of "Rondo for Band", however, belongs again to the forced eighth notes.