In Memoriam Gary Fagan

In Memoriam Gary FaganThis gorgeous string work would be appropriate for any concert, but would be especially fitting in a memorial concert. Starting with a haunting piano chord progression, the solo piano leads to a melancholic melody in the violins. The B section then gives the cellos a chance to show off their abilities to emote. After the piece builds to an intense forte it gradually fades back into the opening chord pattern. This unusually beautiful string work will

Completed the last year of his life

The arranger has taken two of his most famous examples of minstrel music to weave a slow

String crossings

the performers should work to shape the chords as expressively as possible while playing balanced and in tune

and show off musical skill and maturity

two opposing melodic patterns emerge

The simple melody uses only the notes of the D Major scale on the D and A strings

The excitement and energy of the Old West is captured by this fresh

eerie opening seems to take a distant view of a labyrinth

The original composer is unknown

the feeling of movement never ceases

Bill the Lizard