Wrath of the Waves: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

Marlatt's gift for narrative writing shines here. The piece moves through distinct scenes with melodic clarity and enough rhythmic novelty (shifting meters, animated figures) to hold both ensemble and audience attention without becoming precious. It's substantial enough for a concert feature but accessible enough that players stay engaged throughout the entire arc.

Swashbuckling and spirited. You're sailing with purpose in the opening, receiving urgent commands, stealing a moment to watch the horizon, then celebrating your plunder with unbridled energy. The piece never loses its sense of adventure, even when it slows down.

Brass quintets at the secondary through early collegiate level. The piece works equally well for reading-focused ensembles working on contemporary repertoire and more experienced groups seeking a vibrant concert vehicle with personality and narrative drive.

• Bring out the programmatic journey by clarifying sectional contrasts. The reflective "Sun Off the Bow" needs genuine space and breath compared to "Jig on Deck"; resist the urge to rush transitions.
• Lock the rhythmic animation in "Captain's Orders" and "Jig on Deck" by having the section establish a clear pulse together before layering in the written figures. The shifting meters will land with precision only if the foundation is rock-solid.
• Distribute the melody generously across the quintet. Since it travels throughout the ensemble, each player should know where their voice carries the tune and voice it accordingly, even when inner parts seem less prominent.

Program this as a feature item on a concert devoted to contemporary brass writing, or use it as an intermission closer if you want the audience to leave smiling and energized. Its narrative structure and varied tempos also make it an engaging teaching tool for young ensembles working on pacing, style contrast, and ensemble blend across multiple sections.

• Reading mixed meters (shifting time signatures)
• Ensemble balance and voice independence while carrying shared melody
• Stylistic contrast and tempo transition management
• Rhythmic precision with animated figures and syncopation
• Musical storytelling through sectional characterization