This bundle includes:
1. A digital PDF of the Teacher Resource Guide from the Teaching Music textbook
2. An mp3 recording of the work

Bayou Breakdown weaves a bluegrass reel into a fugal texture with plenty of Cajun two-step backbeat and “blue” notes all into a palate-pleasing musical gumbo!

Composed in spring 2003, it was written for the University of Toledo Wind Ensemble and dedicated to Frank Wickes, director of bands at Louisiana State University. The initial idea was to compose a fugue for concert band blending elements of American bluegrass with a sort of Bach meets Grainger sound. As is the case with many compositions, the piece was at least halfway sketched before it received its title. Breakdown, in this case, refers to a lively, sometimes noisy, and highly energetic American country dance. Adding Bayou to the title allowed the composer to reflect upon his many cherished memories of the charismatic state of Louisiana and Louisiana State University and encouraged him to include rhythms and harmonies heard in certain Cajun music.