David Sampson

Entrance/Exit

*Entrance/Exit* for brass quintet is a striking and captivating work composed in 2004 as a gift to the renowned American Brass Quintet, honoring the composer’s fruitful and ongoing collaboration with the group since 1986. Despite its modest duration of just over ninety seconds, this work conveys a complete musical narrative with remarkable economy. The piece opens with a charming and graceful introduction that immediately establishes its character. It then develops into a section full of exuberance and comical exuberance, in which the ensemble almost loses itself in its excited exuberance. The harmonic and rhythmic tensions build as the music progresses with playful lightheartedness. Yet just as the composition seems poised to lead into delightful chaos, it skillfully reins itself in with a confident and brilliant closing fanfare that brings the piece to a satisfying conclusion. This witty and unpretentious gem demonstrates that musical depth and entertainment do not require a lengthy exposition. Perfect for concert programming or recital settings, *Entrance/Exit* showcases the brilliant timbres and agility of the brass quintet while maintaining a contagious sense of humor throughout.