The percussion is fairly limited in this piece but it is important. The vibe part, especially, is quite active throughout.
Possible Teaching Concepts
Phrasing, especially long phrases
Dynamic contrast within a small dynamic range
Minor key/relative key signature
Potential Challenges for a Young Ensemble
This beautiful, moving piece is a great chance to highlight a young player and show off their musicality. Included are solo parts for violin, flute and clarinet but this could be adapted to fit most instruments providing they have the range and stylistic capabilities.
Technique, for the most part, will not be the big challenge though there are a few passages that will take a little work. The woodwinds and trumpets have a two-measure syncopated passage that occurs several times. At this tempo, this should not be an issue once the basic rhythm is learned. The challenge will be playing it smoothly and musically, behind the soloist.
There are quite a few quarter notes tied to eighth or sixteenth notes that will require young players to carefully subdivide to ensure proper timing. Dotted-eighth sixteenth rhythms occur occasionally as well but, as with the other rhythms, the trick will be keeping things smooth while being very precise.
The bassoon part could be a concern as there are several exposed, important lines that are not doubled in another instrument. Many of the lines have cues for other players but, without a solid bassoonist, some part writing will be necessary to ensure everything is covered.
The written dynamic range is fairly limited. Though there are marks for pianissimo through mezzo forte, the primary range is pianissimo to mezzo piano. Still, there is a lot of room for dynamic work and expression but it may prove a challenge for a young band to play with such sensitivity.