HiJinks for Solo Tuba and Band

HiJinks was commissioned in the Spring of 2011 by Adam Crowe, tubist with the United States Coast Guard Band and New Haven Symphony Orchestra. After hearing some of his recordings it was evident that this was a player of great musicianship, I was particularly impressed by his range and musicality. So I set out to write a piece that would show off this particular player by using the tuba in every possible way and in every register, dynamic and style.
The work is in one movement and is composed of contrasting sections using the same handful of melodic ideas beginning with a slower introduction which presents the first theme which is generally heard in a lyrical singing style, answered by the solo oboe accompanied by a quiet clustering of pitches in the woodwinds. The woodwinds followed by the low brass play short, chant-like statements foreshadowing the next theme while the tuba answers the band continuing in the lyrical style of the previous section. This transitions into a spirited and jovial ‘Allegro’ section. The second theme is light and playful, two characteristics most wouldn't associate with the instrument. The dialogue between the soloist and the ensemble continues all while the music becomes lyrical again but with quirky interruptions and unexpected turns and treatments of the melodies. The third theme which is lyrical is played simultaneously with the jovial second theme.
Now that all three themes have been heard the piece continues to shift and change putting the tuba in all kinds of musical scenarios and situations, until the band stops and the tuba takes over in an extended solo. At this point in the music, the Tuba has had too much fun and gotten into too many shenanigans (and possibly even a little drunk...letting out a few belches at the conclusion of its cadenza).
The band begins to wind up again building from the lowest register and exclaims a fanfare. The jovial second theme is revisited with the full band and soloist playing with a few final musical ‘acrobatics’ from the tuba...complete with a crass circus band.
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