FOLK SONG
by JOSIAH GARZA
*FOR FLEX BAND*

Grade 4 | 5:20 | © 2020

This work is meant to mirror the process of growth a folk song faces as it evolves over time. Often, the history of early music can be shrouded in mystery and feel like a tattered remnant of a once profound piece of art. This patchy beginning is embodied in the ‘Fragile’ introduction and hocket-like approach to the thematic material. As the ‘Steady’ portion of the piece begins, the motivic center of this “folk song” is realized which is analogous to a present-day restoration of a once uncertain and humble tune that now stands as a valiant presentation of growth. I ask the audience and performers who experience this work how will you share this song, how will you tell this story?

Recorded November 2020 by the University of Delaware Wind Ensemble and Dr. Lauren Reynolds.