Splash: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

Gassi has crafted a brass quintet that balances serious musicianship with genuine fun. The three contrasting movements give your ensemble real variety, from the driving swagger of the opening to a moment of genuine lyricism, then back to high-energy jazz feel. Every player gets chances to shine with solo material and chord changes that reward practice.

Sunshine and motion. 'Windsurf' grabs you with rhythmic drive and crisp harmonies that feel like you're cutting across the water. 'Floating' pulls back into something genuinely beautiful and introspective, letting the trombone breathe over warm backgrounds. Then 'Jet Ski' rushes back with cool jazz phrasing and soaring high passages that demand energy and precision.

Medium-difficult brass quintets looking for high-energy, stylistically diverse material that appeals to students and audiences alike. This suite works well for ensembles that enjoy jazz influences and want showcase opportunities for individual players within an ensemble setting.

• Lock the rhythmic pocket in 'Windsurf' before adding any embellishment. The written solos depend on a tight, confident foundation from the rhythm section.
• Shape the trombone solo in 'Floating' with space and breath; let the lush background chords from the other voices support rather than crowd the line.
• Approach the jazz licks in 'Jet Ski' with precision articulation and clear articulation of the high register passages to cut through the ensemble texture.
• Use the optional drumset part to anchor the rhythmic energy, but have a plan for the piece if drums are unavailable.

Perfect for a spring or summer concert where the water-sports theme and tonal palette match the season. The three distinct movements work equally well as a complete suite or as individual selections on separate programs. Consider programming it alongside more traditional chamber works to show range, or keep it as a centerpiece that lets your brass ensemble display both lyrical depth and rhythmic sophistication.

• Jazz articulation and phrasing (swing rhythms, syncopation, smooth legato over staccato accompaniment)
• Solo improvisation and chord changes in a jazz context
• Lyrical expression and phrase shaping in a ballad setting
• High register facility and endurance (especially trumpet and French horn)
• Rhythmic precision and ensemble lock in syncopated, driving material
• Balance and blend in four-part harmony with optional fifth voice (drumset)