Born during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pageant by Australian composer Barrie Gott transforms the simple interval of a fourth into an engaging, multi-faceted set of variations. Written specifically with 4th Section bands in mind, this work delivers rich textural contrast, clear educational rewards, and a crowd-pleasing arc that moves from regal tradition to high-energy rock.
 
The piece opens with a majestic herald, setting a ceremonial tone as a warm, mellow melody dialogues with bright, fanfare-like brass. From there, the music moves through three distinct stylistic worlds: a delicate, nimble variation inspired by the craft of Eric Ball’s A Little Suite for Band; a smooth, lyrical ballad featuring the solo cornet and flugel horn; and a high-energy finale grounded in a driving 6/8 rock groove, bringing the work to a dramatic, cinematic finish.
 
To listen to a recording of Toowoomba Municipal Band performing the work please visit: https://on.soundcloud.com/i9X5JsWQedaAbiWzXf
 
Duration: approx. 6.45 mins
 
Difficulty Level: 4th Section +
 
This PDF download includes the full score and parts. 
 
Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or satradecentral.org (USA)
 
Instrumentation:
Soprano Cornet Eb
Solo Cornet Bb
Repiano Cornet Bb
2nd Cornet Bb
3rd Cornet Bb
Flugel Horn Bb
Solo Horn Eb
1st Horn Eb
2nd Horn Eb
1st Baritone Bb
2nd Baritone Bb
1st Trombone Bb
2nd Trombone Bb
Bass Trombone
Euphonium Bb
Bass Eb
Bass Bb
Timpani
Percussion 1-4