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As the winner of American bandmaster Edwin Franko Goldman's composition contest in 1919, "A Chant from the Great Plains" helped launch the tradition of commissioning upon which the repertoire of the modern concert band medium relies. Inexplicably, Busch's piece fell into obscurity and has become so rare that the primary researcher on Carl Busch, Dr. Donald Lowe, was not able to view any of the music while compiling his research with the exception of citations and articles. A Chant from the Great Plains helped begin the trend of accomplished composers viewing the wind band as a musically viable medium in the twentieth century.This document provides a rationale for the revival of the work in both scholarship and performances. Its origins were explored, as well as its historical significance and compositional craft. This document also provides a suggested instrumentation for performance, as well as a formal analysis of the work. Recommendations were also made for the creation of a critical edition for the modern wind band.
About the author
Raul G. Barcenes is currently Assistant Professor of Music and Visiting Director of Bands at Elon University in Elon, NC. He has experience teaching music in California, Nevada, Texas, Nebraska, and North Carolina. He hold degrees in Music Education, Conducting, and Educational Administration and is in active demand throughout the United States.
