Beating the Rapids
From Buffalo River Suite

Beating the Rapids by Bud Woodruff is a spirited, almost fiddle tune that begins the journey down the river, with cascading eighth notes in each section. The drama builds with a modulation to D, with figures representing the whitewater rush. The G major section returns, leading to another modulation to C and a beautiful viola solo, backed by the other principal strings. The entire orchestra plays the more romantic and restful theme with our successful trip down the river to camp. There is minimal 3rd position for Violin 1 only, and the soloists will also have to shift. (4:45)