Three-Part Invention

Written in June 2005 by Kenneth Downie for the 25th. Anniversary of the Netherlands Brass Band Championships in 2005 and used again in 2006, the composer writes :

I borrowed the title for this music from J.S.Bach, some of whose great contrapuntal keyboard works bearing that name I struggled to play as a student. Any similarity with Bach is very loose and superficial however. I am really only using the term to describe a suite, invented by me which happens to be in three movements.

The first idea in the Prelude does have a hint of counterpoint about it, but it is only a veneer and by the time the euphonium melody appears at the Meno Mosso, we are in a more lyrical style which is further developed by the cornets.

The second movement, Larghetto Espressivo, is an affectionate glance at the music of the late 18th./ early 19th. century, and calls for a singing style, with great sensitivity. The closing horn calls should be full of nostalgia.

The finale, Caprice brings back a quick change of tempo and mood. The aim is to be light hearted and good humoured, while always remaining musical and avoiding vulgarity. Hopefully by the end, players and listeners will have enjoyed themselves.