Khan by Julie Giroux was inspired by and named for the warlord, Genghis Khan, who built his empire through conquering many territories. Giroux’s fast-paced song contrasts to Steven Bryant’s piece that is meant to portray the “calm of dusk”. These two compositions paint very unique images in the listeners minds with the different styles and tempos. In addition to what the music does to the audience, it also challenges the ensemble in terms of technique, balance, and musicality. One of the biggest differences between these pieces is what the composer wants the audience to think of when listening to their song. With Khan, it gives listeners the feel of Genghis Khan’s army marching to war by using loud drums. Giroux also includes sections in the song that make it seem as though it would be the background music of the army sneaking around to conquer a town by surprise. The lyrical section of the piece could be representative of peace before chaos falls again. In comparison, …show more content…
In addition to the speed of the song, the ensemble plays longer notes with moving melodies during the climax, the most intense portion, of the song. The dramatic crescendo, sustained notes, and build up to this section are also a vital contribution to the power behind it. To make it most effective, the players should have good air support to keep the line moving forward and maintaining the intensity. On the other hand, Giroux uses the loud, low sounds from the brass and percussion sections to give Khan its energy. A faster tempo and quicker rhythms are also used throughout the entire song which require improving fingering and embouchure techniques. In Khan’s calmer portion of the song, a more legato style is used just like in Dusk as well as a softer volume that progresses into a more powerful section. For more impactful climaxes, the performers are also required to have good