Composer

:

David R. Holsinger

Genre

:

Band

Style

:

Band Music

Average_duration

:

4:17

On an American Spiritual is a band music composition by David R. Holsinger. It was composed in 1991 and premiered on March 1, 1992, by the University of North Texas Wind Symphony. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, titled "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," is a slow and contemplative piece that features the melody of the traditional spiritual song of the same name. The melody is passed around the different sections of the band, with each section adding its own unique interpretation of the melody. The movement builds to a powerful climax before fading away into a quiet and reflective ending. The second movement, titled "Deep River," is a more upbeat and lively piece that features a driving rhythm and syncopated melodies. The movement is based on the traditional spiritual song of the same name and features a call-and-response structure between the different sections of the band. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before ending with a quiet and reflective coda. The third and final movement, titled "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho," is a fast and energetic piece that features a driving rhythm and syncopated melodies. The movement is based on the traditional spiritual song of the same name and features a call-and-response structure between the different sections of the band. The movement builds to a powerful climax before ending with a triumphant coda. Overall, On an American Spiritual is a powerful and moving piece of music that showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the traditional spiritual songs of the African American community. The piece is characterized by its use of call-and-response structures, syncopated rhythms, and powerful climaxes, all of which serve to evoke the spirit and energy of the traditional spiritual songs on which it is based.

More....