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Title	Böhmische Skizzen
Category	Concert/wind/brass band
Subcategory	Concert music
Instrumentation	Ha (concert/wind band)
Format	PrtStm (full score and parts)
Publisher's article no.	KL 2080
Year of publication	2010
Composer	Jiskra, Josef
Difficulty level	3+
Evaluation level of countries	A3 (Austrian C level)
Duration	8:00
Additional info/contents	Time and again, terms from the fine arts, such as pictures, views, sketches, are translated into music. This also applies to this composition, which aims to musically record a picture of the development and growth of this country. Josef Jiskra does not make any specifically folk-musical quotations, i.e. he does not walk through Bohemia's groves and fields following classical models, but tries to express his home life in Bohemia with a view to history and art in his own musical language. The fact that he creates a polka mood, as it were, in the forward-looking entrance is quite legitimate and independent, far removed from common folklore clichés. For then, as it were, Bohemia's soul opens up with all its depth of feeling and often also melancholy, as is the result of experiencing fateful days. But not resigned looking back wins space, the moving theme again directs the view to the active present and future to be mastered. The extremely pleasing waltz theme is a good example of this, leading to a powerful finale of particular beauty and uplifting solemnity.
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Programme notes: Josef Jiskra's "Bohemian Sketches" – Analysis of a Concertante Wind Orchestra Work with a Bohemian Character Josef Jiskra, a prominent composer of Bohemian origin, composed "Bohemian Sketches," a concertante work for wind orchestra that impresses with its unmistakably Bohemian character. The piece is one of the required works for the upper secondary level (Level C) in Lower Austria and demonstrates Jiskra's ability to combine traditional Bohemian sounds with concertante-symphonic elements. The composition consists of several movements, each distinguished by different tempi, moods, and musical features. Structure and Musical Characteristics of the Movements The first movement, an Allegro at a quarter-tempo of 132, captivates with its lively rhythms and vibrant melodic lines. Typical of Bohemian music are dotted rhythms, syncopation, and a prominent melodic line in the woodwind and brass sections. The instrumentation utilizes the full sound of the wind orchestra, with clarinets and trumpets taking the thematic lead. The second movement, an Andante sostenuto at a quarter-tempo of 80, is characterized by a lyrical, songlike melody reminiscent of Bohemian folk songs. The dynamics remain restrained, focusing on tonal homogeneity and expressive phrasing. The accompaniment is often provided by supporting chords in the trombones and tubas, while flutes and oboes embellish the melody. The third movement is marked Solenne, suggesting a solemn, almost ceremonial character. Here, harmonic density and a majestic sonic development dominate, underscored by fanfare motifs in the brass section. The rhythm is even, with accented beats, giving the movement a dignified and reverential tone. The fourth movement, a Largo at a quarter-tempo of 66, is a slow, meditative section that provides space for expressive solo passages. The woodwinds, such as the English horn and bassoon, in particular, have ample opportunity to showcase their tonal diversity. The harmony is often chromatically enriched, lending the movement a melancholic touch. The fifth movement, an Allegro vivo at a quarter-tempo of approximately 184, is a fast, energetic section with virtuosic passages reminiscent of Bohemian polkas or lively dances. The rhythm is characterized by triplets and sixteenth notes, giving the piece a captivating dynamism. The instrumentation utilizes the full range of the orchestra, with percussion providing rhythmic accents. The sixth movement, a Tempo di Valse in triple meter (56), is a waltz characterized by its dance-like rhythm and elegant melodic line. Typical of Bohemian waltzes are the emphasis on the downbeat and a flowing movement. The tone is warm and expressive, with a prominent role for string-like instruments such as flutes and clarinets. The seventh movement, a Maestoso in triple meter (76), is distinguished by broad, fanfare-like melodies and a stately, forward-moving rhythm. The harmony is mostly diatonic, with clear cadences that lend the movement a festive air. The brass section dominates, supported by a rhythmically precise percussion accompaniment. The finale, titled Eroico, in triple meter (80), is characterized by a heroic, triumphant spirit. The music is powerful and energetic, with dense instrumentation and distinctive rhythms. The brass and percussion, in particular, contribute to the dramatic build-up, culminating in a brilliant finale. The Bohemian style in the "Bohemian Sketches" In this work, Josef Jiskra draws on typical characteristics of Bohemian brass band music. The rhythms are characterized by dotted rhythms, syncopation, and triplets, which lend the music its distinctive verve. The melodies are folk-like and lyrical, with a predilection for small intervals and chromatic turns. The harmonies mostly remain diatonic but are enriched by deliberate chromaticism, giving the music an expressive depth. The instrumentation utilizes the full range of the brass band. The woodwind instruments, such as clarinets and flutes, and the brass instruments, such as trumpets and trombones, are particularly prominent. Percussion is used strategically for rhythmic accents, which underscores the Bohemian character. Effekt auf das Blaschester The "Bohemian Sketches" place high demands on the ensemble, both technically and musically. Fast passages, virtuosic solos, and precise rhythms require a high level of playing skill. The composition also demands a balanced sound, especially in the movements with dense harmonies and virtuosic melodies. Despite the clear structural guidelines, the work offers room for individual interpretation, particularly in the lyrical and expressive passages. *The "Bohemian Sketches" are thus not only a concert work of high artistic value, but also an example of the successful fusion of traditional Bohemian music with modern, concertante elements. They are ideally suited for advanced wind orchestras seeking technically and musically challenging repertoire.* Text: musicainfo.net (KI)

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	Format	EUR
	Böhmische Skizzen (concert/wind band), full score and parts
	Ombra e Sole, audio CD

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