Pitts - Conniption from Kokopelli's Dance by UPEI Wind Symphony

A conniption is a fit of hysterical emotion. The term provides the emotional context for this music. Compositionally, this work uses minimalism - short fragments that are repeated. It begins with trumpet fanfares accompanied by metallic percussion. Form here, the piece unfolds constantly adding layers of sound, increasing the excitement, while adding tension and instability. The alternation between a highly chaotic atonal section and swing jazz figures adds to the instability. Eventually, lyrical melodies return leading to an ending that is both triumphant and unified.

The University of Prince Edward Island Wind Symphony consists of music majors, other UPEI students, and community musicians. Commissioning new compositions, featuring outstanding student and professional soloists, and showcasing masterworks of the wind band genre are all hallmarks of this ensemble.

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