Theodore's Anthem - Army Field Band Horn Quintet

 For this next blog, I wanted to showcase this piece titled "Theodore's Anthem: A Cavalcade for Five Horns and Band" by Kerry Turner. This work was commissioned by the United States Army Field Band and was premiered in 2015. 

Brief History about the Band

From their website: "From Boston to Baghdad, Tampa to Toronto, The United States Army Field Band has been thrilling audiences of all ages for more than six decades. As the premier touring musical representative for the United States Army, this internationally-acclaimed organization travels thousands of miles each year presenting a variety of music to enthusiastic audiences throughout the nation and abroad. Through these concerts, the Field Band fosters the support of the American people for members of the armed forces and supports diplomatic efforts around the world."

"Theodore's Anthem is a portrait of Theodore Roosevelt's colorful and inspiring life, reflecting his love of the American landscape, his determination to overcome his own physical challenges as a sickly boy, and culminating with the victorious charge of his Rough Riders at the Battle of San Juan Hill.

Having played many of Turner's pieces before, I really liked how this piece showcased the entire range of the instrument through the different parts as well as beautiful and nostalgic soaring melodies in the horn. You can definitely pick out the Patriotic fanfares and they fit nicely. The piano part isn't too overpowering, and I feel that it adds just the right amount of spice that an accompanying part should. Since this version was the piano reduction of the band arrangement, I am very interested to hear what the full band arrangement would sound like and how Turner uses the other instruments to get his vision across.