Description
Composer: Adam Scott Neal
Instrumentation: Concert band
Format: Downloadable PDF — Score and Parts (2 files)
Score: Score is 56 pages total (including cover and front matter). Size: 8.5 x 14 in.
Parts: Parts are in one file of 99 pages total (each part is 4-5 pages). 8.5×11 in.
Duration: 6 minutes
Grade: V
Instrumentation:
- Winds: Flute 1 & 2, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet 1 in E-flat, Clarinet 2 & 3 in B-flat, Bass Clarinet, Soprano Sax, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax
- Brass: Trumpet 1 & 2 in C, Horn in F 1 & 2, Trombone 1 & 2, Euphonium, Tuba
- Percussion:
- Vibraphone
- Perc 1: woodblock, triangle, sleighbells, maracas, bass drum
- Perc 2: hi-hat, suspended cymbal, cowbell, brake drum
- Perc 3: snare, 3 tom-toms
Preview
Recording
Excerpt: m. 206 to end
Program note
The expression “cog in the machine” is used by workers to describe themselves as insignificant, even unhuman parts of an organization. This piece reflects each player’s yearning for purpose in the “machine” of a wind ensemble. There are few solos, but numerous small ensembles playing short figures that create larger, undulating harmonies. Through collective action, the players aspire to make something greater than themselves. The piece is based on a Bach chorale which begins “Ah, how fleeting, ah how insignificant is the life of mankind!”
Performances
- To-be-premiered
About the Work
cogs in the machine is an original composition for advanced wind ensembles interested in rhythmically intricate contemporary repertoire. The piece is available exclusively as a digital download (PDF score and parts) directly from the composer’s catalog.
