Aegina and Bacchanalia (from Spartacus): Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
By Aram Khachaturian / Arranged by Leslie W. Hicken
Grade: 5
Item: 35-PK00329786
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Description
Reflecting colorful orchestration techniques and the influence of native Armenian classical traditions, "Spartacus" was one Khachaturian's hugely successful ballets (along with "Gayane"). This exciting and powerful sequence from the ballet is adapted beautifully for the concert stage by Leslie Hicken. An energetic rhythmic pulse is exhibited throughout, capped by a stunning and dramatic finish that will take the audience's breath away! Dur: 3:45 (Grade 5)
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00329786
More about this title
About the Composer: Aram Khachaturian
Aram Khachaturian (1903–1978) was an Armenian composer whose music synthesized Soviet modernism with the harmonic language and melodic character of Caucasian folk traditions. His three ballets, including Spartacus and Gayane, became his most celebrated works and remain staples of international concert and ballet repertoires. Khachaturian's gift for orchestration and his ability to build dramatic tension through rhythmic intensity made him one of the most performed composers of the twentieth century.
Why we love this
This excerpt captures everything that makes Spartacus compelling: visceral rhythmic drive, bold harmonic colors, and a narrative arc that builds to genuine dramatic impact without requiring staging or extended length. Leslie Hicken's transcription respects the orchestral palette while giving each section of the band genuine musical work, making it rewarding to rehearse and thrilling to perform.
What to expect
Visceral and propulsive, with an undercurrent of ancient ritual and martial strength. The Armenian folk idioms create harmonic warmth even in moments of high intensity, and the unrelenting rhythmic drive propels the listener forward until the stunning, breath-stealing finale arrives.
Who it's for
Grade 5 bands with confident rhythm sections and strong reed and brass fundamentals. This works best for ensembles that have developed consistent ensemble sound and can handle sustained passages alongside energetic figures.
How to get the most out of it
- Maintain unwavering pulse through the rhythmic passages. The power of this movement depends on collective precision and commitment to the underlying groove, not on rushing or sagging.
- Shape the melodic lines with full voice even when they sit within a dense texture. Khachaturian's melodies are direct and singable; they deserve clarity and weight.
- Balance the dramatic finish carefully. The climactic moment should feel inevitable and overwhelming, not simply loud. Build through your dynamic levels steadily from the opening.
How to use it
This is an excellent centerpiece for a concert exploring twentieth century ballet music or international compositional voices. At 3:45, it pairs well with shorter works and can anchor a program without overwhelming the total runtime. Consider programming it alongside other pieces with strong rhythmic or cultural identity to create a cohesive thematic arc.
Skills your students will build
- Maintaining rhythmic precision in ostinato patterns across multiple measures
- Balancing melodic clarity within complex harmonic textures
- Building dramatic intensity through dynamic control and pacing
- Responding to rubato and expressive conducting gestures within a metric framework
- Executing rapid articulation and rhythmic subdivision with accuracy