The Fire of the Living God

Technical Considerations

The middle section features an unusual "12/8 in 5" section. Rather than the usual 4-beat pattern of 3+3+3+3, this is a 5-beat pattern in a 4-bar repeating pattern: 3+2+2+3+2 / 3+2+2+2+3 / 2+2+3+3+2 / 3+2+2+2+3. A "3" indicates a 3-eighth note long beat, a "2" indicates a 2-eighth note short beat, all within a 5-beat pattern.

There is a small section of singing ("ah") by women's voices, an important effect. This can be done by members of the band/orchestra or a small women's chorus.

The brass are divided into two choirs on either side of the audience. A minimum of 18 brass are required in the band version. The large orchestra version uses 16 (4642). The standard orchestra version uses 11 (4331).

In the band and large orchestra versions, the top two trumpets need a solid concert high C (C6, D6 on Bb trumpets). In the standard orchestra version, this applies only to the first trumpet.

The percussion parts are challenging (but idiomatic) and the section is featured prominently. They will enjoy these parts. The piece has been performed successfully by ensembles that have needed to use a few non-percussionists to cover parts.

The piano part needs a bona fide keyboard specialist.

4-8 Extras performers are needed in this and the last movement to twirl the "whirlies" (whistling tubes)

This page last updated on 07/27/07