This exciting setting of the well-known Albanian tune, "Shota," captures the festive mood of a village dance. Incorporating the common folk-dance rhythm of long-long-short, this lively piece is scored in cut-time (half note = 92-112) and has a 3 + 3 + 2 eighth-note pattern throughout. The work includes memorable melodies and interesting rhythm and effects, such as trombone glissandos and horn rips. Varied articulations and dynamic contrasts help create the spirit of the piece. Cues for oboe, horn, and bassoon parts make this composition playable by ensembles with an incomplete instrumentation.

The Instrumentalist