The Harvest Moon Soiree

At this soirée music lovers have assembled to celebrate the harvest, play a few tunes, and enjoy a little dancing. Beginning with a lightly scored “hoedown” motif with woodwinds, the good-natured mood is interrupted by a thoughtful chorale, first stated by the brass. Contrasting consonance and dissonance are shared by each section until completed by the full ensemble. Eventually the “hoedown” theme returns with renewed energy, and the piece dances to a surprising finish.