Gambit

A “gambit” is a daring and adventurous opening strategy. This music for young band mixes elements of suspense and excitement into a high-energy concert or contest piece sure to please your band and audience.

Program Notes

The word “gambit” refers to an opening strategy in a game like chess that involves a risky move. A gambit is daring and adventurous, but can lead to success. This idea is the inspiration for the music in Gambit. After a suspenseful introduction an exciting main theme is presented in the trumpets. This theme is developed with the full ensemble, and then gives way to a more contemplative middle section that mixes a new theme with fragments from the earlier music. The final section brings back the main motives from the trumpet theme and introduction for a thrilling ending.

Grade Level: 2
Copyright: 2019
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 3:30
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Concert Band

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Instrumentation

Flute 1
Flute 2
Oboe (opt.)
Bassoon (opt.)
Clarinet 1
Clarinet 2
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1
Alto Saxophone 2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet 1
Trumpet 2
F Horn
Trombone
Euphonium
TC Baritone
Tuba

Timpani (2 drums)
Xylophone & Bells (opt.)
Percussion 1 (2 Concert Toms)
Percussion 2 (Suspended Cymbal)
Percussion 3 (Snare Drum, Bass Drum)