A Gallant Overture for Concert Band (2023) - 6 Minutes

Premiered in May 2024 by Nelson Roque and the Southwest Miami Senior High School Symphonic Band

A Gallant Overture, written in the summer of 2023, is a concert band piece inspired by medieval tales of knights and their adventures. The piece begins with a short introduction that sets the mood of heroism and excitement. The first section (A) is fast and energetic, representing the gallant knights answering the call to adventure. The theme is played by different instruments and groups, creating contrasting sounds and variety. The second section (B) is slower and more lyrical, introducing a beautiful melody by the Flute that depicts the love interest of the main knight. A sorrowful saxophone solo leads to a big flourish that transitions to the third section. The third section (A') is a recapitulation of the first section but with some surprises. The first section's theme is now played in canon by soloists in a new key. The displacement of the melody creates a sense of urgency and excitement as our heroes return home. The piece concludes with a codetta that signifies the victory and return of the knights as heroes.