Description
Duration 2:55 min
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Program Notes
'Somehow' was originally written as an educational round to teach prepared suspensions and their resolutions. The original lyrics 'Somehow I, in all my fear have lost my first love, the first so dear. Oh I never ever thought that I would ever be so alone' influence the orchestration and this is particularly evident in the solo flute ending, painting the words 'so alone'.
The round is also set to the 'Alleluia' and this is the setting that this work is most commonly encountered in, functioning as a processional as well as part of the Mass.
Performance Notes
This work is a setting of a three entry round. The opening introduction establishes some of the melodic and harmonic elements but the first full statement of the melody is not until measure thirteen. This is followed by a contrasting middle eight with a flute solo. Thereafter the round is presented in all its counterpoint.
This is a noble sounding work, rich in colour and texture with some tender and intimate moments. An excellent choice for a contrasting slower work in your concert programme.
Care should be given to tonal balance and only use the optional doublings if needed. Do not rush the steady movement of the crotchets particularly when other parts have quavers. At times there is more than one countermelody and it is important that these do not get buried, yet they are not to dominate the texture.
Instrumentation
Flute 1 2, Oboe, Bassoon, Bb Clarinet 1 2 3, Bass Clarinet, Alto Sax 1 2, Tenor Sax, Bari Sax,
Bb Tpt 1 2, Horns in F 1 2, Trombone 1 2, Euphonium (BC & TC), Tuba
Timpani, Glockenspiel