Category: SOLOS - Euphonium
Composer: Philip Sparke
Concerto No 3 for Euphonium and Band
Grade 5, solo grade 6
Duration 16:40
Three movement virtuosic concerto written for the world-renowned euphonium virtuoso Steven Mead.
Diamond Concerto was commissioned by Musikverein Morschied from Germany Dr Eric Grandjean conductor for a special concert featuring Steven Mead as guest soloist Together they gave the world premiere on 28th April 2012 in the town theatre of Idar Oberstein.
The commission is a highlight in the 30-year friendship between composer and soloist which has included many mutual CD projects and concerts and, now, a concerto. Sparke had Steven Meads special euphonium sound in his head throughout the composition process and made free use of the variety of styles which the world-renowned virtuoso has made his own during his highly successful solo career.
The village of Morschied lies to the west of Frankfurt am Main in the area known as the
German Road of Precious Stones which is famous for its thriving gem industry Because of this
it was decided to give the commission a local connection by choosing the title
Diamond Concerto Each of the three movements is named after a famous diamond -
1 EARTH STARis rather stern in mood opening with a free fantasy for the soloist over a static chord from the band This leads to an
Allegro Moderato in minor mode where small motives are gradually repeated and developed by both band and soloist
2 OCEAN DREAMuses a varied quote from the composers
Music for Battle Creek including a melting slow melody that was originally
written with Steven Mead in mind
3 BLUE HEARTwas written at Steven Mead s suggestion in bebop style and takes the form of a jazz waltz The quasi improvisatory
central section features a call and response passage for the soloist and the band
Diamond Concerto is also available for euphonium and piano edition number AMP 374
To view 
