Encanto Robert W Smith Program Notes May 2026

Composer:

Program Notes: Robert W. Smith (1958–2023) Composition Date: 1989 Duration: Approximately 5:00 Difficulty: Grade 3 (Intermediate) About the Composer Robert W. Smith

The narrative arc of the work begins with an explosion of energy. The brass section, bold and resonant, announces the theme with a confidence that borders on bravado. It is a greeting, a welcome to the festivities. The woodwinds answer with flourishes that mimic the fluttering of vibrant fabrics in a breeze. encanto robert w smith program notes

2. Technical & Musical Features (For Musicians/Conductors)

• This arrangement is based on copyrighted songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda; performance may require appropriate licensing through the publisher. Verify performance and rental rights before public performance.

As a festive concert piece, it is designed to help younger bands sound "strong and confident" through its bold rhythmic drive and clear orchestration. Performance Details: The piece typically has a duration of approximately Wind Repertory Project Quick Facts for Program Inserts Encanto - Wind Repertory Project Composer: Program Notes: Robert W

One of the most striking aspects of Smith's arrangement is its use of musical themes and motifs. The arrangement features a range of recurring musical ideas, each of which is associated with a particular character or theme from the film. For example, the melody of "The Family Madrigal" is used throughout the arrangement to represent the Madrigal family's love and connection to one another. Similarly, the theme from "We Don't Talk About Bruno" is used to represent the mysterious and complex character of Bruno. This arrangement is based on copyrighted songs by

• Grade Level & Accessibility: State that this is a Grade 3-3.5 piece—challenging for young/intermediate bands but emotionally rewarding, with no virtuosic technical demands on most instruments.
• Robert W. Smith’s Style: Briefly note Smith’s prolific output for concert band (e.g., The Divine Comedy, Into the Storm). Explain that Encanto represents his more introspective, lyrical side.
• Programming Idea: Suggest pairing Encanto with other “nature-to-nurture” works (e.g., Sheltering Sky, October by Eric Whitacre) or with music inspired by literature/gardens.

4. Imagery & Narrative (for the audience)