Swain, John - Paloyoloyo (Symphonic Band Score & Parts)

Paloyoloyo, Anonymous Cahuilla Indian Composer ca. 1600. Originating around four hundred years ago, this song is an extract from the "Birdsong" cycle, songs of celebration and commemoration which reminded people of their migration on this land. The earliest Cahuilla musicians played a rattle as accompaniment, but by the time of the missions, the drum had been imported from other Native American nations.



This composition is cast in two parts. The allegro section is based on a fragment of the original melody that is passed through several sections of the band. The opening melody of the slow section is a countermelody to the original melody, which is finally introduced in the second part of this section in on voice of a woodwind trio. The third statement of the melody and countermelodies for full band is followed by the melody for one solo instrument with drum accompaniment. In effect, everything that comes before can be considered a fanfare to the presentation to this beautiful melody.

- John Swain