First Suite for Band was commissioned by R. Lee Holmes and the Edmonton Public School, which premiered the work, Reed conducting, in 1975 at the Canadian Music Educators Association.
The four-movement suite begins with March, a tense and dissonant piece that features hard-driving treatment of a dramatic marching theme that is undoubtedly entertaining not only for audience members but for performers as well. Melody unfolds a long, lyrical idea that develops to a broad climax and then diminishes with a beautifully quiet resolution. Rag is a light scherzo, set with bopping ragtime rhythms and tasty motifs.
The finale, Gallop, is an authentically styled American circus galop, demonstrating Reed’s intelligent orchestration. The piece literally gallops with lively rhythmic and dynamic melodies, transporting audience members to the heart of the circus. The tempo marking “as fast as possible, (but no faster)” embodies the feeling of excitement and celebration. These details combine to create a sense of exhilaration and movement that builds into a brilliant finish.
Program note researched and written by Elisabeth Jackson