Zodiac Suite: Scorpio
Mary Lou WilliamsPiece Duration: 3:23
About this Piece
Program Note: "Zodiac Suite was the first orchestral program Mary Lou Williams composed in her own name, originally produced in 1945, but never performed by a full orchestra in her lifetime; her largest arrangement was also limited to a much smaller 45-instrument grouping.
The Zodiac Suite explores varying eras and musical styles, with Williams referencing beloved artists and influences in her life grouped under their respective astrological signs. Scorpio is dedicated to Katherine Dunham (dancer, choreographer), Al Lucas (jazz double bassist – Canadian), Ethel Waters (jazz singer and actress)." - Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
Arrangement: Originally performed as a piano piece - https://youtu.be/h0mQGH9of4c
Featured Movements:
-Aries
-Taurus
-Gemini
-Cancer
-Libra
-Scorpio
-Sagittarius
-Capricorn
-Aquarius
Notable Passages
Description:
The ensemble plays the first ostinato found in this piece, which is full of rhythmic syncopation! Tap along and try to feel the groove!
(Click here to see the ostinato notated)
Keywords: Ostinato - Composition Technique , Ostinato - Form , Syncopation
Description:
The flute and clarinet play in parallel motion!
Keywords: Parallel Motion
Description:
A second ostinato is introduced into the music! Tap along with the quarter note beat, heard in the drum kit!
(The ostinato is heard in the sub-dominant key, here. Click below to hear it in the home key!)
Keywords: Ostinato - Composition Technique , Ostinato - Form
Description:
Even more members of the ensemble play in parallel motion with each other!
Keywords: Parallel Motion
Description:
The second ostinato returns!
(Click here to see the ostinato notated)
Keywords: Ostinato - Composition Technique , Ostinato - Form