My Grandfather's Clock Still Ticks: Conductor Score & Parts

This arrangement brings a beloved American standard to brass quartets in a form that honors the original's melodic strength while giving each section meaningful musical material. The familiar tune and straightforward harmonic structure create an accessible entry point into ensemble playing without sacrificing musicality or engaging part-writing. Programming a Work arrangement offers students a direct connection to music history while building confidence through repertoire they may already know.

The piece carries the warmth and narrative quality of its source material, combining the steady, ticking-clock-like rhythmic motion suggested by the title with melodic phrases that sing naturally across the ensemble. There's an inherent dignity in the arrangement, reflecting both the sentimental journey at the song's heart and the structural confidence of 19th-century songwriting. Performing it creates an almost storytelling quality, where the brass voices take turns carrying the narrative forward.

Brass quartets seeking repertoire that bridges classical tradition and popular American songwriting will find this arrangement immediately rewarding. High school and community ensemble musicians benefit from the straightforward technical demands and the satisfaction of bringing a recognizable melody to life together. Directors programming around themes of American music history or preparing mixed-ability ensembles can trust this work to engage both players and audiences.

• Balance the melody between the two trumpet parts; the first trumpet shouldn't dominate the second trumpet's supporting lines, especially where they move in thirds or sixths.
• Attend to phrase shape by managing air support through longer melodic passages. The trombone and euphonium need clear phrasing cues from the conductor to anchor the harmonic foundation without sounding stationary.
• Shape the characteristic march-like character of the piece without sacrificing legato in the sustained passages. The work invites both rhythmic vitality and lyrical warmth depending on the section.
• Use the conductor score to mark entrance cues clearly for the supporting voices, particularly where the tuba enters or drops out. Clean attacks and releases keep the ensemble tight.

This work fits naturally into concerts celebrating American music, historical retrospectives, or programs exploring the roots of popular song. The familiarity of the melody makes it an excellent choice for community or family concert contexts where the audience will recognize the tune immediately. Consider pairing it with other brass chamber works or American standards to create a coherent thematic program.

• Balanced part-writing in brass quartets, particularly managing the relationship between melody and supporting voices
• Phrase shaping across longer melodic lines with sustained harmonic support
• Rhythmic coordination in march-influenced figures
• Listening for and adjusting intonation in close harmonic intervals, especially in the middle voices
• Ensemble entrances and releases with clear conductor cues