Dance Movements

Philip Sparke

Dance Movements was commissioned by the United States Air Force Band. It premiered in 1996 and won the prestigious Sudler Prize for composition. Its four movements, played without a break, are are all dance-inspired, although no specific dance rhythms are used. The first movement has a Latin American feel. The second, for woodwinds, uses a tune in the style of an English country dance. The third (brass) movement can been seen as a love duet in classical ballet. The fourth movement was inspired by West Side Story.

Philip Sparke (b. 1951) studied composition, trumpet and piano at the Royal College of Music in London. He has composed extensively for wind ensembles. He has conducted and adjudicated at venues around the world. He founded his own publishing company and is a full-time composer.

Last updated on July 16, 2013 by Palatine Concert Band