How Are Things in Glocca Morra? has been a favorite of mine ever since I first heard the tune on a Wynton Marsalis recording (Standard Time, Volume 3: The Resolution of Romance). I thought it might be a nice vehicle to feature the sweet and very natural sound of David Piecka, RCBB's Principal Horn player, and I was right. His phrases arch just right and the sound is so even all over the instrument.

I remember the weeks leading up to the first rehearsal of this tune. I had a computer problem and had to resort to (gasp!) hand-written manuscript. I don't know if that was a bigger problem for me or for the unfortunate musicians who had to read my very poor manuscript.

• How Are Things in Glocca Morra? is published by River City Brass Band Publishing.
  Available for Brass Band.

• Hear a short sample of How Are Things in Glocca Morra? by the River City Brass Band, Denis Colwell, Music Director, featuring David Piecka, Horn from the compact disc recording All American*.