Subtitled "American Overture," Sergei Prokofiev’s Overture in B-flat, op. 42 was commissioned in 1926 by an American pianola society for the opening of their New York City concert hall. This new edition expands the chamber ensemble of 17 instrumentalists to full concert band, highlighting the exciting percussive textures of the original. Set in a loose rondo form, the overture’s melodies show Prokofiev’s well-known knack for combining folk-like simplicity and Romantic lyricism. Its harmonic language is Prokofiev’s unique brand of tonality spiced with appealing dissonance. (Edition Tierolff)