Emperata Overture

This is the composition that started it all! A classic of the wind band literature for concert and contest alike. It was something completely different, with its appearance in 1964. The band’s literature had not experienced the trademark 7/8 measures, which we all know as a Smith trait. This composition also includes one of his few full band fugatos. Excellent percussion writing and a combination of all themes come together in a direct modulation to C Major. Originally titled “Overture for Winds and Percussion,” the word “Emperata” has no meaning; it was just, as Claude put it, an “intriguing” word! Still Smith’s best-selling work.