Chorale Shaker and Dance II
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Grade 3

John Zdechlik is a natvice of Minneapolis, Minn. He was born in 1937 and studied piano during his early years. While in high school, he became interested in jazz and soon began writing arrangements for local jazz bands. During these years, he began studying trumpet and soon was busy as a professional performer and writer in the Twin Cities area. This background led him to a career in music. In 1970 he received a Ph. D. in Theory and Composition from the University of Minnesota. Since that time he was had numerous works commissioned and published. His music is frequently performed by high school and college group throughout the world. He currently teaches at Lakewood Community College, White Bear Lake, Minn.

Year of publication: 1989

Publisher: Kjos Music

Grade: 3

Type of composition: Chorale and Shaker Hymn

Style: Has four broad sections: slow, fast, slow, fast

Programming suggestions: Chorale and Shaker Dance II is made up of two main musical ideas. The first is the simple melody found in the opening Chorale. The second melodic idea is the melody from the well-known Shaker Hymn, “The Gift to Be Simple.” These melodies are used in alteration and combination throughout divided into four broad sections throughout the piece.

Solo instruments: none

Anecdotal notes: An easier version of “Chorale and Shaker Dance.” The work is written in roughly ternary form. In measures 1-21, the themes are presented in the form of an expressive introduction. The simplicity of the melodic material should predominate. The change of tempo at measure 22 signals the beginning of the opening A section. The tension builds until measure 72, when it is released through the full statement of the theme by the trombones. Following a brief transition, the B section begins at measure 101. In this slow middle section, a dramatic setting of the Shaker melody’s bridge unfolds. At measure 135, the composition begins the road to is conclusion with the return of the faster A section. Following a series of thematic presentations, many in augmentation, the piece ends with a vigorous coda.

Discography: contact Kjos Music