The Train

The Train (2006)

A musical vehicle for young string players

Phillip Magnuson

This piece consists of six modules (or "cars") of indeterminant structure. Each module should last for approximately 30 seconds, with the actual length to be determined by the conductor.

The train begins with the Engine, and must end with the Caboose. The order of the other cars are decided in advance by the conductor, and should be performed without breaks.

Part A is to be performed by violins, part B by either violins or violas, and part C by cellos or basses.

Engine

Conductor begins part C VERY slow, but not in a regular tempo, then adds part B, equally slow; each of these two parts continue to accelerate, on their own and independent of each other (but each part staying together, as conductor cues part A intermittingly. When ready to move to the next car, everyone stops except for one player performing the part B ostinato of the Engine without stopping.




Animal car

Pick an animal from the list below and make your instrument sound like it. Perform this sound for about 3 seconds each time the conductor points at you.

Pig

Cow

Duck

Sheep

Horse

Chicken





Flatbed car

Pick one of these pitches and play as many different ways that you can, such as:

  • Short
  • Long
  • Loud
  • Soft
  • Pizzicato
  • Accented
  • Crescendo/decrescendo
  • Tremolo
  • Ponticello
  • Col legno




Passenger car

Improvise a musical conversation with the person next to you. Take turns listening and then talking back with your instrument, always expressing real thoughts, such as

The conductor will start one conversation, then add and subtract others, ending finally with everyone playing at the same time.



Tanker car

Each part (A, B, or C) must play together as one unit (divisi), but does not have to play at the same time or the same number as the other two parts. The conductor will cue each part with his fingers as to which number that group should play. Each number must be used at least once, but any number may be used more than once.



Caboose

Part B joins the one player doing the ostinato, repeating many times in strict ensemble and tempo. Parts A and C join in like the beginning, becoming softer and softer until total silence is reached. Keep bows moving in mimed performance for at least 5 seconds after silence arrives. Do not slow down.