Posted by Sean Chisham on December 16, 2000 at 15:14:15:
In Reply to: how loud should you go on 1812 posted by Fei Huang on December 16, 2000 at 12:37:36:
All the dynamics are relative to the others. ffff is softer than fffff. fff is softer than ffff and so forth. These dynamics are also to be balanced throughout the ensemble and not on an instrument by instrument basis. So find the boldest dynamic marking, such as fffff, and listen to how strong, balanced, tasteful, and beautifully the ensemble can play. The other lesser dynamics are graduated down from there. Same thing with ppppp.
The indications are not just dynamics though, they are also an indication of intensity. Intensity is more than just how loud one plays.
The real challenge in a less experienced ensemble such as a high school or even college band is keeping the testostrone under control in the artillery so the clarinets and other woodwinds have a chance to fit in with the music.
If your arrangement is similiar to the ones I have played in the past, then spend more tiem on the sixteenth note scale runs near the middle and the opening triplet figures. The loud eggs will take care of themselves if you stay tasteful.
sean