Riff Off was commissioned by Superbrass as a performance opportunity for young brass players to play alongside more advanced instrumentalists.
The piece draws on many musical styles with elements of Folk, Rock, Pop and Funk forming the melodic and rhythmic material.There are opportunities for the players to trade short improvised solos and a longer improvised section where soloists can compete in a head-to-head showdown; the ‘riff off’. The piece reaches a climax through an extended tutti riff inspired by a number of iconic guitar and horn lines. The parts for younger players are catchy and repetitive making them accessible to teach by rote if required. This piece also works as a standalone concert item without the additional junior parts.
