Johnnie Vinson

Variants On A Shaped Note Tune

Variants on a Shaped Note Tune was commissioned by the Homewood Middle School Band (Homewood, AL), and was premiered at the Alabama Music Educators Association Conference in January 2006. The title refers to a traditional early American singing style based on reading a system of shapes rather than musical notes. Based on the Scottish tune 'Pisgah' from the shape note songbook, The Sacred Harp, the Variants begin simply with a statement by unison clarinets. From there begins a series of distinctive variations featuring an ingenious mix of styles, tempos, and instrumentation. Destined to become a staple on required contest lists for years to come, this work provides an exceptional complement for any program or festival.