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Date Posted: 13:34:12 04/06/04 Tue
Author: Derek Meilaender
Subject: Re: Blend
In reply to: Steven Tharp 's message, "Blend" on 10:58:46 02/20/04 Fri

Steve -
I'm not entirely sure what method would work best for achieving such a blend. The method I would try first is "the pyramid." Introduce the ensemble to the concept that bass voices are the loudest. On top of that, the alto/tenor voices are the second loudest, and the soprano voices are the softest. This concept (a pyramid of sound) should get them listening to each other more efficiently. Have them play a Bb concert chord with the lowest voices on the root, the alto/tenor voices on the third, and the sopranos on the 5th and possibly the root. (For example, in a band the lowest voices would be the tubas, baritones, and trombones plus bari saxes, bassoons and bass clarinets. The middle (or alto/tenor) voices would be the saxes, horns, 3rd trumpets, and 2nd (or 3rd) clarinets. The sopranos would be oboes, flutes, 1st trumpets, and 1st clarinets. When they play a Bb concert chord, you could experiment by having the sopranos play the loudest, then the middle voices, and lastly the bass voices. Let them listen to what each attack sounds like. Ask them which they like the most, tell them it doesn't matter, and inform them that the proper way to play is with the bass voices the loudest.)
Most importantly - have the ensemble listen to each other, with the most support coming from the lowest voices.

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Replies:

[> Re: Blend -- J. Padley, 07:47:44 05/05/04 Wed [1]

I think that introducing the pyramid is best, like Derek said, but also, I think you must get experience with the group to know what you're looking for. Experiment with the group and try new things until you get the sound that you want. I think directors do this all time in rehearsal, they just don't tell the students that. If you do this enough, eventually you will realize a pattern in what you do to get the right sound. From there, you just have to remember that pattern and use it to your advantage.


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