Compass Points West!: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

$15.00 USD

Compass Points West!: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

Name: Compass Points West!: Brass Quintet Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 81-BQ19495
Price: 15.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Carmen Gassi

Level: Medium

Item: 81-BQ19495

$15.00

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One moment…

Imagine you were a crew member on those early ships of exploration leaving Europe in the 15th century to sail to America. Feelings of anticipation and apprehension would give way to feelings of adventure and joy! The piece begins with a lyrical introduction recalling the sense of anticipation and confidence felt by those early explorers as they embarked on their journey but quickly gives way to the main thematic idea introduced by the 1st trumpet. The journey West was not without danger, and this composition takes your ensemble on a musical adventure ending in triumph.

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Series: Eighth Note Publications

Publisher: Eighth Note Publications

ISBN10: 1-77157-661-8

ISBN13: 978-1-77157-661-1

UPC: 685462026623

SKU: 81-BQ19495

More about this title

Why we love this

Gassi crafts a narrative arc that unfolds naturally across the quintet texture, giving every player a moment to carry the musical storytelling rather than relegating accompaniment roles to the lower brass. The piece balances programmatic ambition with genuine musical substance, so your ensemble builds real interpretive skills while engaging an audience that loves a compelling concept.

What to expect

The opening breathes with the quiet anticipation of ships leaving harbor; there's almost a nervousness in the harmonic language. As the first trumpet emerges with the main theme, the music gains confidence and momentum, sweeping through moments of genuine peril before arriving at a triumphant close that feels both celebratory and hard-won.

Who it's for

Intermediate to advanced brass quintets preparing for contest or festival performance, or ensemble directors seeking repertoire that combines accessible musicianship with dramatic storytelling. The work suits ensembles comfortable with balanced textures and flexible phrasing but not yet tackling high-difficulty contemporary writing.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the lyrical introduction with deliberate dynamic control. The sense of anticipation depends on restraint in the opening measures; resist the urge to play too loudly and let the confidence grow gradually as the harmonic language develops.
Balance the first trumpet's main theme against the supporting voices. This melody is the dramatic heart of the piece, but it should sing through a full ensemble texture without the accompaniment becoming thick or drowning it out.
Mark the harmonic journey from anticipation to adventure to triumph in your score, noting key textural shifts. Rehearse the transitions between these emotional zones so the ensemble moves deliberately from one section to the next rather than rushing ahead.
Commit fully to the closing triumph without overshooting the tempo. The energy should feel earned and inevitable, not frantic. Let the final brass sonority ring clearly.

How to use it

Program this as a contest selection or festival showcase piece where the programmatic title and concept will resonate with adjudicators and audiences alike. It pairs well in a concert with other Americana or exploration-themed works, or on its own as a standalone feature that demonstrates your quintet's ability to sustain narrative tension across a complete movement.