Like most of Leroy Anderson’s efforts, Belle of the Ball is light, effervescent, and devoid of conflict or disharmony. Anderson looked upon the piece as a modern-day American revival — or revitalization — of the Viennese waltz tradition. Having said that, the main theme sounds rather unlike a Strauss waltz, but the voice of Tchaikovsky is evident in its playful, fantasy-like character. The melody is rhythmic and comes in short groups of notes, beginning with two notes, then three, then expanding further; the music skates along elegantly. The middle section features a delightful variation on the theme, in which Anderson’s gentle-belled sonorities impart a playful innocence. This exclusive Southern band edition by Mark Rogers reintroduces Anderson’s enchanting work to new generations of audiences.
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