KADUJO! is an energetic and optimistic concert band piece based on two traditional Lithuanian folk songs.  Its introductory theme strikes a note of hopeful longing for the blossoming of the apple tree, and then titular “Kadujo” theme springs forth with rhythmic energy, making the most of its odd but satisfyingly intuitive meter (5/4). Accessible contemporary harmonies and counter melodies provide a breath of fresh air and lift the ancestral themes to new heights.

Commissioned by the Lithuanian National Culture Center

 

Full instrumentation:

  • piccolo
  • 2 flutes
  • 2 oboes
  • 2 bassoons
  • 3 clarinets in Bb
  • 1 bass clarinet
  • 2 alto saxophones
  • tenor saxophone
  • baritone saxophone
  • 2 horns
  • 3 trumpets
  • 2 tenor trombones
  • bass trombone
  • euphonium
  • tuba
  • timpani
  • percussion (5 players)
    • snare, triangle
    • drum set, mark tree
    • glockenspiel
    • xylophone
    • vibraphone
  • Instrumentation: Concert Band
  • Alternate Instrumentations: European Fanfare Winds Orchestra, Brass Orchestra (by Rokas Podelis)
  • Duration: 4′ 50″
  • Level: ~Grade 4
  • Availability: Purchase via email/paypal ($75 digital score/parts)

I found “Kadujo” and several other folk songs I’ve used in my compositions in this massive, three-volume collection of Lithuanian part-songs by ethnomusicologist Zenonas Slaviūnas. The total number is over 2,000!