A Tribute to Mahler : Resurges - Based on a hymn tune from 2nd Symphony by Gustav Mahler

The poem "The Resurrection" by Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock was set to music by Gustav Mahler in the fifth movement of his Second Symphony, known as the "Resurrection." The central passage from Mahler's musical adaptation was incorporated into "A Tribute to Mahler," a composition created in homage to Mahler, 100 years after his death. Powerful brass tones and delicate woodwind melodies alternate in a Mahleresque manner with horn and trumpet signals from a distance. The choir is delicately complemented by the solo alto saxophone. "A Tribute to Mahler" aims to, like a continuation "after a short repose," offer us a glimpse into the blissful world to which we will all eventually journey.

Spirit of Time

Zeitgeist; transformations; a departure for new shores… these are buzzwords we often encounter nowadays. Above all in this digital age, it is essential that we face changes positively and that we make the very best of them. “Music is emotion!” Otto M. Schwarz begins many of his lectures with this phrase, and this is exactly what we feel in this new concert work. Rapid, and full of energy, is the leap into a new chapter—wonderful opportunities are waiting to be discovered in uncharted lands. But change is not only loud and momentous. The creative power of the future lies dormant in the inventive spirit of the individual—quietly, thoughtfully, silently and alone! The final sequence of this work is all about good vibes: it lights the way to a positive future and stands for the dawn of a new era!

Stratosphere

What do the American Joseph Kittinger and the Austrian Felix Baumgartner have in common? They both jumped from over 30km high with a parachute. While Kittinger’s attempt on 16 August 1960 was from a height of ‘only’ 31,333 meters, Felix Baumgartner broke this record on 14 October 2012 with a breath-taking 38,969 meters. This composition Stratosphere describes the adventure, from climbing into the capsule with help of a balloon, to the short pause in the stratosphere, and the jump, the turbulence during the free-fall descent, and finally the opening of the parachute and the safe landing.

Impresario

Impresario is a solemn concert march by Otto M. Schwarz, equally suitable as a work to open a concert or indeed as a finale. The main theme of the first section is processed in different harmonic and rhythmic variations and finally leads to a trio with numerous technical refinements and a catchy melody. This somewhat out-of-the-ordinary concert march in Otto M. Schwarz’ well-known style ends with a frenzied finale.

Brasserie : for Brass Quintet & Orchestra

The commission of the Pentaphonia Brass Quintet and the Haize Berriak Sakanako Musika Ekartea Concert Band from the Spanish Basque country was to write a piece for brass quintet and concert band. The work was conceived by Otto M Schwarz as a piece that moves through different styles in a manner similar to his concerto grosso. Thematic material is introduced by the quintet and then taken over by the band, and vice versa. Furthermore, the quintet doesn’t always play together, but rather often as a trio or just a duet. Virtuoso solo passages complete the work. Brasserie is one of the very few works of its type and is sure to find a permanent place is the symphonic wind music repertoire.

Back on Track

Back on Track is a spectacular composition for Concert Band. Otto M. Schwarz composed an opening fanfare for the beginning, which can also be played as a short ‘teaser’ at festive events. A motif is treated through various rhythms and time signatures and leads to an epic finale, splendidly brought to life by the glorious timbres of the brass.

Suite for Brass Quintet No. 2

Even as a young musician, Otto M. Schwarz played numerous works in the baroque style on the trumpet. Inspired by these student days, he is now composing new works ‘in the style of…’. We open with a festive Intrada, or entrée, followed by a Galliarde in 6/8 time. The regal and dramatic Sarabande is capped by a rapid 6/8 Finale. This is music that transports us back to the baroque era, when the royal houses of Europe were still centres of power throughout the globe.

Suite for Woodwind Quintet No. 2

Even as a young musician, Otto M. Schwarz played numerous works in the baroque style on the trumpet. Inspired by these student days, he is now composing new works ‘in the style of…’. We open with a festive Intrada, or entrée, followed by a Galliarde in 6/8 time. The regal and dramatic Sarabande is capped by a rapid 6/8 Finale. This is music that transports us back to the baroque era, when the royal houses of Europe were still centres of power throughout the globe.

Saxpack

Saxpack was commissioned for the centenary of the Polizeimusik Wien (Vienna police orchestra). One of the most prolific saxophonists in all of Austria, Gert Kolaja, is a member of this professional orchestra. One of Otto M. Schwarz’s goals in his compositions for concert band is to continually develop and expand the genre. That is why Saxpack features a fully composed “crime scene”, complete with high-speed chases and experiencing “Vienna at night”. The work is composed in a very modern style, incorporating many contemporary saxophone techniques. As well as switching from alto to soprano saxophone, the piece offers ample opportunity to improvise. This is definitely a piece that saxophonists, band, and listeners will enjoy.

Echoes of Time : Symphonic Opener

"Echoes of Time" is a concert overture by Otto M. Schwarz that captivates with its impressive musical diversity. The composition combines fanfare-like sounds with gentle, lyrical passages, creating a dynamic soundscape. These varied elements lead to a majestic finale. The energetic yet emotive music conveys a positive atmosphere.  

That's Brass

This work is dedicated to the Blechreiz brass quintet on their 10th anniversary. Each musician is pushed to the limits in this very challenging composition. Rhythmically exposed passages that mesh together in a continuous sixteenth-note groove, alternate with solo passages and a catchy chorus. In the middle of the composition a waltz suddenly sounds—but the ensemble is brought to its senses by the tube player’s evident disapproval and the music soon returns to the original style. Demanding, tongue-in-cheek and witty passages with a funky groove are the ingredients of this new work by Otto M. Schwarz for brass quintet.

Concerto Italiano : 6 Original Pieces for Brass Quintet

This original work for brass quintet consists of six festive pieces. While the Rondino, Saltarello, Fanfara or Marcia movements are especially suitable for convivial moments, the Sarabande is more fitting for a moment’s pause for thought or calm. This music is suitable for a variety of occasions, whether religious or secular.

Crossover Suite No. 1 : for Saxophone Quartet

Crossover Suite No. 1 comprises five stylistically very diverse movements. 1. INTRODUCTION: A brisk opening leads to a bass groove on baritone saxophone. Various animated stylistic elements such as finger snaps are contrasted with ‘straighter’ elements familiar from march music. 2. VIENNESE WALTZ: A waltz in a minor key, with the characteristic and unmistakable accompaniment in the Viennese style. 3. ROUNDABOUT: Roundabout is a rondo with recurring motifs and a point of rest in the adagio. 4. STOMPS AND CLAPS: As the name suggests, the work is performed with the help of hands and feet. Body percussion alternates with technically demanding passages. 5. FINALE: A rapid final movement with a dolce middle part leads to a furious closing section with changes of meter and some dynamic surprises. Each movement can also stand on its own, but when performed as a complete suite this composition shows off the full breadth and capability of a saxophone quartet.

Nostradamus

Nostradamus was one of humankind’s greatest prophets. Many of his coded prophecies proved true. He lived at the time of the inquisition, and his predictions and medical therapies as a physician made him face consequences from the church. After he had been forced to flee several times and had lost his family to the plague, he devoted himself to clairvoyance. He wrote down many events in history in coded predictions. Although there is probably more than one possible way of interpretation, in our world, Nostradamus is still considered to be a unique personality. Whether he is degraded to a charlatan or turned into a myth, he surely has moved humankind with his prophecies. Otto M. Schwarz, soundtrack composer since 2001, wrote a cinematographic work about this man, who is probably the best-known prophet of the last 1000 years.

Carol of the Bells

Gerald Oswald presents an impressive new interpretation of the famous Christmas carol "Carol of the Bells," which is based on a Ukrainian folk song, for symphonic wind orchestra. His arrangement combines classical tones with a jazz waltz, creating a captivating musical blend. This versatile arrangement stands out with its unique fusion of tradition and jazz. Experience a festive and unforgettable sonic experience.

Carol of the Bells

Gerald Oswald presents an impressive new interpretation of the famous Christmas carol "Carol of the Bells," which is based on a Ukrainian folk song, for symphonic wind orchestra. His arrangement combines classical tones with a jazz waltz, creating a captivating musical blend. This versatile arrangement stands out with its unique fusion of tradition and jazz. Experience a festive and unforgettable sonic experience.

Lux Aeterna : for Solopart (in C, Eb or Bb) & Organ (Piano)

Otto M. Schwarz was asked by a friend to compose a chorale for the funeral of his child. Lux Aeterna (The Eternal Light) is actually part of the requiem mass, but in this composition, there is no reference to the original Latin text. People who recount near-death experiences often report a bright light. The music moves back and forth between passages that are sad, optimistic, and imploring in nature, posing questions that cannot be answered. The end of the piece comes, however, with a conciliatory major chord that reflects the calm and warmth of this light that promises redemption.

A Christmas Medley

A Christmas Medley

Outburst

„Outburst“ is a spectacular opening for any concert. The entire orchestra can showcase its impressive skills for over three minutes. The initial fanfare is abruptly interrupted by a pulsating, faster tempo, driven by powerful drum beats and orchestral rhythms. Following this, the first four notes of the fanfare resound in various variations. Each instrument section has its glorious moment and contributes collectively to the impressive finale.

Unforgettable : Chorale, Flex 4 (Concert Band, Fanfare Band & String Ensemble) & Drums (opt.)

Immerse yourself in Otto M. Schwarz's poignant choral piece, „Unforgettable“, a moving composition that celebrates the memory of our departed loved ones. The captivating melody of the first part captivates listeners, while the middle section surprises with a stirring atmosphere. More than a somber farewell, this composition also recalls the beautiful times we shared together. The concluding section gracefully echoes the theme of the beginning. 'Unforgettable' is not just a piece that tugs at the heartstrings; it's a tribute to life and the memories that will accompany us forever.

Jet Stream : A short musical story about a rapid weather phenomenon

Jet Stream : A short musical story about a rapid weather phenomenon

Heartbeat of a City

Heartbeat of a City