Pierre Garbage Festival
Program Notes
an album by...
The Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble
R. Winston Morris, director
Personnel
The Festival of Garbáge was recorded on April 30 and May 1, 2000 in Derryberry Hall auditorium at Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, Tennessee. The ensembles consisted of a select group of Tennessee Tech alumni, the Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble, and the especially formed Garbáge Festival Chorus under the direction of Dr. Susan Smith, Director of Choral Activities at Tennessee Tech. Project director and musical conductor was R. Winston Morris, Professor of Music and Director of the TTTE.
Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble Alumni, representing 30 years of participation in the TTTE
Euphoniums
- Lloyd Bone, Cincinnati, OH
- Darin C. Cochran, Centerville, TN
- William Hunley, Carthage, TN
- Ben Keen, Ft Worth, TX
- Jon Oliver, Westmoreland, TN
- Ashley Sample, Claremont, NC
- Jimmie E. Self, Church Hill, TN
Tubas
- Jerry Bernard Beckman, Mt Juliet, TN
- James Michael Dunn, Tuscaloosa, AL
- Andrew Lynn, Manchester, TN
- Charles A. McAdams, Warrensburg, MO
- Timothy J. Northcut, Mason, OH
- David Porter, Springfield, VA
- Chris Roush, Canton, MI
- Scott Tignor , Denton, TX
- Jimmy Whittenberg, Benton, KY
The Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble, R. Winston Morris, director.
Euphoniums
- Cory Belvin, Lexington, AL
- Cody Clifton, Dickson, TN
- Chad Cozart, Manchester, TN
- Bryce Edwards, Lascassas, TN
- Seth Fletcher, Manchester, TN
- Josh Hughes, Memphis, TN
- Ronnie Manis, Cookeville, TN
- Jacob Thorington, Manchester, TN
- Corey Willis, Columbia, TN
Tubas
- Scott Beaver, Marietta, OH
- Gray Bach, Kershaw, SC
- Anne Marie Church, Odenton, MD
- Brian DiDiego, Warner Robins, GA
- Lindsey Evans, Hendersonville, TN
- James Gronewald, Morristown, TN
- Justin Henderson, Laurel, MD
- Angelo Kortyka, Cleveland, OH
- Anthony Labelle, Montreal, Canada
- Erik Lodal, Kingsport, TN
- Chris Rodriguez, Conroe, TX
- Josh Trent, Kingsport, TN
Featuring special guest artists for the Gay '50s Medley the magnificent Ms Linda "Peaches" Ferreira and the lovely Dr. Frederick "Herb" Kennedy
And Now:
Presenting the Music of Doctor Pierre X. Garbage
(He of the Flaming Sword, the True-Blue Orb and the Oaken Core)
Ph.D., Ed.D., LL.D., D.M.A., C.P.A. and S.O.B.
*WARNING: Don't even THINK about listening to this CD unless:
- You score a 4.2 or higher on the Garbage "Gag Threshold" scale.
- You are in the presence of a moral guardian at least three times your age.
- You are willing to sign a disclaimer releasing Pierre from psychic and podiatric damages.
*Further, this CD is rated "R" (for ridiculous, redundant and revolting) and the management assumes no responsibility for offended sensibilities!
Presented by Numeroous Friends of the Noble Cause. (Listen at your own risk)
Program
Chaser #1 (recorded by the combined ensembles)
Written in only three parts, Chaser #1 is a lively hoe-down. Originally written to be a part of the theatrical production of Songs in the Fight Against Rum, this brief but lively composotion stands completely on it own. Consistent with other Garbage works, the melody does not always occur where you think it should and outlandish harmonic gestures are the norm.
Bullfrog Rag (recorded by the combined ensembles)
Composed in 1993 under another one of Garret's pseudonyms, Trident Gigger Gillfish, the Bullfrog Rag unleashes an avalanche of "swamp" music that will make you want to croak!
Pop-Rock Medley (recorded by the alumni ensemble)
Composed/arranged circa 1971, this medley contains original "familiar-sounding" melodies ("Happy Heart" and the second theme from If I Were a Rich Man from Fiddler On The Roof) in a "pop" style. Typical of the educational value of many of Garrett's compositions, each of the four parts has an opportunity to play the melody.
Londonderry Air (recorded by the alumni ensemble)
Few folk melodies have the universal appeal, or have been the subject of as many different arrangements, as Londonderry Air. This is a beautiful , traditional arrangemnt for euphonium solo and tuba/euphonium ensemble. While easily playable by five players, this performance is an excellent example of Garrett's writing highlighting the rich sonority of a full tuba/euphonium ensemble. Solo euphoniumist on this recording is William Hunley, a Tennessee Tech graduate whose first brass instructor was James Garrett.
Mystical Music (recorded by the alumni ensemble)
Composed in 1970 for the Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble, Mystical Music was one of the more "serious" compositions by Jim Garrett. Thirty years later this composition hold up well as a major early work for the tuba/euphonium ensemble.
Sousa Surrenders (recorded by the alumni ensemble)
Expect the unexpected as you try to figure out what Sousa melody you will hear next. Garbage writes in the score, Sousa Surrenders and Pierre graciously accepts his sword.
"Rules of Performance" for Sousa Surrenders:
- The conductor should be disguised if possible.
- Players shall quaff at least one (1) keg of beer just prior to the performance, in case an alibi is needed.
- No one shall laugh or heckle.
- Dr. Garbage is in poor general health. A short prayer on his behalf at the beginning of the performance would probably be appreciated.
Wabash Cannon Ball (recorded by the combined ensembles)
Arrangements such as the Wabash Cannon Ball and Sweet Georgia Brown are examples of why James Garrett's pieces are performed by so many tuba ensembles. Wabash "works" well for this medium. The arrangement is instantly recognizable, and is fun to listen to and play.
Gay 50's Medley (recorded by the combined ensembles and guest artists "Peaches & Herb")
Pierre Garbage premiere work takes us through the greatest hits of the early days of Rock 'N Roll. Some of the familiar melodies in this edited version include Good Luck Charm; Sh-Boom; Blue Moon; Sugaree; green Leaves of Summer; Happy Wanderer; Poetry in Motion; Blueberry Hill; and For Your Love. Because this is a Garbage arrangement, this is NOT your normal medley.
The following are the "Rules for Performance" as dictated by the good doctor.
- Rehearsals must be conducted in total secrecy.
- Each player should chew up and swallow his individual part after each rehearsal to prevent its falling into the hands of a forgeign power.
- Conductor and players should be of high moral standing, preferably Baptist or Presbyterian. Persons of weak or low morals will not be tolerated. This means you.
- Dr. Garbage is feeling much better. He wishes to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to all who interceded on his behalf during his recent hospitalization. Keep them cards and letters comin' in.
Songs in the Fight Against Rum (recorded by the combined ensembles and the Festival Chorus)
Rum is a huge work which represents the first of two theater pieces by Pierre Garbage. In addition to tuba/euphonium ensemble, this piece also features a tenor solo, barbershop quartet, mixed chorus, female speaker, male speaker, country band, chimes, three clarinets, and if performed live, collection takers. The songs in this work include: Away With Rum, Tell Mother I'll Vote Dry, S-A-V-E-D, Saloonless Nation and A Mighty Fortress Is Our Peirre. Presented here in a highly edited version, the entire piece is parody of the temperance movement of the early twentieth century. The musical twists and turns are hilarious for both performers and audience. While meant to be experienced live, this "suite" is both funny and at times absurd. Pierre writes about this composition, "A major work by a major worker."
A Pierre Soliloquy: Ode to Pierre
Recited here by James Garrett during a 1994 Festival of Garbage performance at Tennessee Tech University.
Tribute To James Allen Garrett
Tribute recordings typically contain well-known examples of a composer's body of work. One of the reasons that make this recording unique is the individual and collective participation by people who were directly involved with a majority of Jim Garrett's compositions. Consequently, this recording is a tribute to James Garrett, the composer and arranger; the friend, and to the genre of music inspired by his work.
Although the tuba has a relatively brief history when compared to other instruments, we have no shortage of talented performers, gifted teachers, inspired composers, and colorful personalitites. Many of us were fortunate enough to know a man that encompasses all of these characteristics. James Allen Garrett was born May 1, 1937 in Celina, Tennessee and grew up-in McMinnville, Tennessee. He graduated in 1959 with a B.S. in Music Education from Tennessee Technological University, and recieved his M.M. from Northwestern University in 1965. He completed post-graduate work at Indiana University from 1967-1968. He studued tuba with Arnold Jacobs and William J. (Bill) Bell, and compositions with Joan Derryberry, James Hopkins, and Thomas Beversdorf.
As a tubist, Jim performed with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the 604th Air Force Band, and was well-known as a brass teacher and clinician. For over thirty years, Jim had been the brass teacher of choice for literally thousands of middle school and high school brass players throughout middle Tennessee. He died of a heart attack on April 27, 1998 in Dickson, Tennessee.
As an independent private brass teacher, Jim exhibited patience humor, and an ability to mold students who would eventually become public school music teachers, professional players, and university teachers.
Jim began his long-term collaboration with Winston Morris and the Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble in 1968. Both men had been students of Bill Bell's at Indiana University but had not met until after their studies. During the infancy of the college tuba ensemble, Jim repeatedly answered the call for compositions and arrangements for Winston and the TTTE. Jim arranged or composed over forty compositions for tuba/euphonium ensemble. From simple three-part arrangements of folk sonfs playable by a massed ensemble of 100, to an opera for soloists, choir, and tuba ensemble, Garrett's music not only works harmonically and technically, but is just plain fun.
In addition to his own name, Jim composed using the names Dr. Pierre X. Garbage, Hauloff Garbage, trident "Gigger" Gilfish, and Rodente (Mousey) Raton. Jim was a permanent guest at Octubafest concerts, annual Tuba Symposiums, and spring tuba parties. Because of his continual involvement in the life of the TTTE, Jim is known to generations of Tennessee Tech tuba and euphonium players. While equally at home teaching private lessons or coaching brass ensembles, Jim thrived when he was holding court at a symposium or spring tuba party. Jim's conservative appearance masked an incredibly off-beat sense of humor and ability to think up characters and stories that crossed the border into bizarre. With a beer in one hand and gesturing with the other hand for effect, Jim could keep fellow tubists laughing for hours discussing the background and philosophy of the fictitious Pierre, singing "original" songs by Garbage, or telling tales of origins we never knew.
Written by Dr. Charles McAdams
Reviewed for the ITEA Journal by:
Harvey Phillips, Distinguished Professor of Music Emeritus, Indiana University
PIERRE GARBÁGE FESTIVAL
A tribute to the music of James Allen GarrettFeaturing the Tennessee Tech Alumni Tuba Ensemble
R. Winston Morris, Director
Mark Records, 10815 Bodine Road, Clarence, NY 14031-0406
"A must recording for every enthusiast of the euphonium and tuba. It features the works of Jim Garrett performed by an all-star ensemble representing 30 years of tutelage from Winstoin Morris. Each performer in this recording reflects the commitment, dedication and pursuit of musical excellence inspired by their uncompromising mentor." James Allen Garrett (1937-1998) will ever be remembered by all who came to know him as a tubist, teacher of literally thousands of middle school and high school brass players in middle Tennessee, as a gifted composer/arranger of rare qualities, and as a loyal friend with unbridled good humor. In 1959 Jim Garrett received a B.S. in Music Education from Tennessee Tech, and in 1965 an M.M. from Northwestern University. He pursued graduate studies at Indiana University 1967-68. He studied tuba with Arnold Jacobs and William Bell, and composition with Joan Derryberry, James Hopkins and Thomas Beversdorf. In the spirit of Spike Jones, Gerrard Hoffnung (Festivals), and Peter Schickele (P.D.Q. Bach), Jim Garrett possessed an equal but singularly unique sense of southern based humor influenced by the Grand Ole Opry and the best of Andy Griffith's Mayberry characters. Indeed, Jim would have flourished in such a setting. In addition to his most noted nom de plume of Pierre Garbáge, others include Hauloff Garbáge, Trident "Gigger" Gilfish and Rodente (Mousey) Raton. Jim began his long association with Winston Morris and the Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble in 1968. During their collaborative association, Jim composed or arranged over 40 works for the TTTE. This CD offers a good representation of his work. I came to know Jim through my visits to Tennessee Tech for Winston's annual clinic and TTTE performances. Having been raised in rural Southern Missouri, I especially appreciated Jim's humor. He was one of a few who knew all the lyrics of 1940's jingles.Now a few comments about what you will hear on this CD. An opening "cackle" is immediately followed by "Chaser #1" calling the performers on stage with some rather raucous work in the low tubas and ending with a multi-dissonant chord. A delightful "Bullfrog Rag"is introduced by early evening sounds of a country pond. These sounds continue throughout the performance which I fear may detracted from the cleanly played rag. " Pop-Rock Medley" displays well balanced ensemble and chance for each of the four parts to solo. "Londonderry Air" is a good example of Garrett's more serious arranging and receives a beautiful rendition by euphonium soloist William Hunley, a student of both Jim and Winston. The ensemble work is superb. "Mystical Music" is well titled and if listeners close their eyes and open their imaginations, each hearing will transport the listener to mystical places. "Sousa Surrenders" is good fun from beginning to end and the rules of performance should be honored at every performance; many surprises await you. "Wabash Cannon Ball" as composer Roy Acuff could never have imagined. The enjoyment of the performers is evident in "Gay 50's Medley" with traditional walking bass line sets up a medley of tunes from the 50's with each receiving the ever present Garbáge treatment, most enjoyable. Ensemble a capella singing and vocalists Linda Ferreira (Peaches) and Fred Kennedy (Herb) deserve acknowledgment. Again, serious Rules for Performance must be observed. "Chaser #2" offers the traditional exit in preparation for "Songs in the Fight Against Rum" which would have been embraced by Carrie Nation and makes a good case against rum and other strong drink. The full tuba-euphonium ensemble is enhanced by The Festival Chorus.
Closing the CD is Jim Garrett himself reciting "Ode to Pierre." This CD meets every aim and intent, which is pure Garbáge. Again, every enthusiast of the tuba and euphonium deserves to own and enjoy this Pierre Garbáge Festival. Especially when they feel the need for good sounds and good humor.
