SKU: CF.YPS215

ISBN 9781491152348. UPC: 680160909841. Key: Bb major.

Beyond the Crest is an exciting piece that captures the essence of Sean O'Loughlin's popular style. The piece opens with a slow, soaring melody that develops throughout the composition. Pulsating eighth notes build the tension and intense harmonies drive the piece to a satisfying and dynamic ending.
Beyond the Crest was commissioned by the Lakeshore Bands of Stevensville, Michigan, and dedicated to Philip and Cindy Huff, Directors of Bands, in honor of their retirement. The piece captures the excitement and achievement that defined Philip and Cindy Huff's illustrious careers. The piece opens with a slow, soaring melody that will become the basis of the entire composition. It builds to an intense chord at m. 13 that sets off into the fast section at m. 14. This section begins with some eighth-note pulses. The woodwinds have more eighth notes than the rest of the ensemble to create an echo effect. Bring out the dynamics to highlight this. The main melody comes in at m. 33, which is a faster version of the opening melody. It is complimented by some eighth-note punches and lush chords. The woodwinds take over at m. 43 with a much broader accompaniment in the lower voices. The lower voices get their chance at the melody at m. 54. The echo effect returns at m. 68 to start the cycle over again but this time with some new wrinkles. Measure 77 transports to a new tonal center and then brings it back to a broad presentation at m. 85. The eighth notes return to bring the piece to an exciting end.