Capriccio, Op. 170: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Capriccio delivers the rare combination of genuine musical substance and unbridled joy. The rondo structure gives students a clear formal anchor while the bell tones, jazz harmonies, and woodwind counterpoint keep the ear engaged throughout; it's the kind of piece that audiences remember and students actually want to rehearse.

Imagine a bright afternoon suffused with whimsy. The piece bounces between sections with infectious energy, bell sounds suggesting celebration or ceremony, while the harmonies slip into bebop territory just often enough to catch the listener off guard. It never condescends to its audience; instead it invites them into its playfulness as equals.

Grade 3 bands seeking a concert opener or filler that has personality and musical integrity. It works equally well for groups building confidence with rondo form or those looking to round out a program with something spirited and approachable.

• Let the brass bell tones ring clearly; they're the harmonic heart of the piece. Resist the urge to balance them down just because the texture gets thick.
• The jazzy harmony invites a lighter articulation style than you might use in more traditional concert band fare. Shape phrases with swing, not severity.
• Balance the woodwind counterpoint by asking players to voice their lines as conversational partners rather than competing for attention; the magic happens when each strand is audible but nothing dominates.

Pair Capriccio with a more introspective work to create dynamic contrast, or open a concert with it to establish an inviting mood. Its moderate length makes it an ideal secondary piece when you want something that counts musically but doesn't dominate your concert arc.

• Rondo form identification and execution (ABACA structure)
• Brass bell tone production and balance
• Jazz-influenced harmonic language and style
• Independence in woodwind counterpoint
• Light, articulate phrasing at moderate tempos