Archangel: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

The piece moves from bold, energetic fanfares through quieter, introspective moments before building toward triumphant resolution. Marlatt's orchestration captures both the heroic imagery in the title and genuine emotional weight, creating a work that feels both accessible and artistically rewarding to perform.

Intermediate brass quintets looking for substantial literature with narrative depth and musical maturity. This work suits community ensembles, university chamber groups, and advanced high school quintets ready to tackle expressive, multi-sectional writing.

• Balance the organ part carefully during rehearsals; it should support the brass voices without covering them. Have the organist listen to a recording of the brass section alone before putting the parts together.
• Mark phrase shapes in each part during early rehearsals. The middle section especially benefits from careful attention to breath points and dynamic shaping across all five players.
• Establish a clear pulse in 'The Thunder of Battle' before adding articulation and dynamic layering. Lock the rhythm section (tuba and horn) first, then build the upper voices around that foundation.
• Record rehearsals and listen back as an ensemble. This piece rewards unified interpretive choices about tempo relationships between sections.

Pair this as the centerpiece of a chamber concert or as a memorable closing selection before a final group piece. Its three-part structure and clear dramatic arc make it ideal for a themed concert exploring storytelling in instrumental music.

• Balancing independent lines in a five-part texture
• Shaping long phrases across sectional divides
• Coordinating with keyboard accompaniment
• Interpreting program music and translating narrative into musical choices
• Managing dynamic contrast in medium-range ensembles