Zodiac Suite: Taurus
Mary Lou WilliamsPiece Duration: 2:25
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. Taurus is dedicated to Duke Ellington (jazz pianist, composer, band leader), Ellis Larkins (jazz pianist), and Mary Lou Williams herself!" - Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
Arrangement: Originally performed as a piano piece - https://youtu.be/HbF68cga9BI
Range: The composer has made creative and effective range choices! Listen for the high, middle, and low range in Taurus. Which instruments do you hear in each range?
Featured Movements:
-Aries
-Taurus
-Gemini
-Cancer
-Libra
-Scorpio
-Sagittarius
-Capricorn
-Aquarius
Notable Passages
Description:
Listen to the parallel motion in the Bassoon and Double Bass, as they move together in fifths!
Keywords: Interval - Harmonic , Parallel Motion
Description:
The piccolo joins the parallel motion in the lower instruments, and eventually all ensemble members descend chromatically!
Keywords: Parallel Motion