Lurking at the Threshold - Solo Tuba

Lurking At The Threshold is an unaccompanied work for tuba that highlights some of the capabilities and characteristics of the instrument. In particular, the low range and agility of the tuba is explored. The title is a nod to the works of author H. P. Lovecraft, and thus the tone of the piece strives to embody some of the elements and scale of cosmic horror. Mixed into the strange lines are recurring themes and lyrical melodies, making the work a well-rounded showcase for the unaccompanied tuba.

Commissioned by Dr. Preston Light for the 2020 Southeast (SERTEC) and Midwest (MWRTEC) Regional Tuba Euphonium Conferences.

As with most unaccompanied works, exaggeration of dynamics, articulations, and other gestures is what makes them come to life. Think of these lines as collections of musical gestures rather than a single, connected melody, and play to the extremes of dynamics and articulation.

Time is free throughout to allow for greater freedom of expression. Where there are specific tempo markings, strict, mechanical time is not required. Breath marks are used to indicate lifts or slight pauses between phrases/gestures.