Suite for Brass Quintet: 3. Scherzo: Zack Attack: Conductor Score & Parts

Stamp writes brass music that actually sounds like brass music. This scherzo gives the tuba a genuine solo voice rather than relegating it to the foundation, and the spirited character means your players will be engaged from the first rehearsal. It's the kind of piece that reminds quintet members why they love playing together.

Spirited and playful, with the tuba stepping into the spotlight and the rest of the quintet providing rhythmic propulsion and harmonic color. The piece moves with energy and wit, never settling long enough to lose momentum.

High school and collegiate brass quintets looking for a standalone scherzo with character and technical demands that push without overwhelming. This movement suits ensembles ready to balance soloistic writing with tight ensemble work.

• Balance the tuba line so it sings above the rest of the texture. This movement belongs to your tuba player, and the accompaniment should support rather than overshadow.
• Lock the rhythmic figures between the two trumpets and horn so the syncopated passages feel unified. Subdivide consistently at tempo.
• Shape the dynamic arc of full ensemble passages with the trombone as your anchor point. Its line often defines the harmonic weight of each phrase.
• Approach articulation as a unifying tool. The scherzo character demands clarity, so agree on how crisp each tongued note will be before you rehearse at tempo.

Program this as a palate cleanser between weightier works on a recital or concert. It also stands on its own at informal performances or student recitals where audiences appreciate a blend of technical display and accessible humor.

• Tuba solo line execution and projection within a small ensemble
• Rhythmic precision in syncopated figures across multiple voices
• Balancing individual voice clarity with ensemble cohesion
• Scherzo character and articulation style