Elegy

William G. McManus composed Elegy in memory of William M. Toland. The work opens with a solemn memorial theme played by solo trumpet accompanied by timpani, one of the many percussion instruments Bill played. After a brief transition section, clarinets and flutes introduce a hymn-like lifecelebrating theme. Following several statements of this melody, the percussion section is featured with the timpani now playing a motif from the opening memorial theme accompanied by snare drum, bass drum and cymbals. This section leads to a majestic restatement of the celebration theme by the full band. The work closes as it began with the memorial theme played by solo trumpet, but this time accompanied by a tolling chime. (WGM)