Скачать или смотреть Across the Bog - Rise of Nations - Duane Decker (piano arrangement)

This piece was written by Duane Decker.

It is most likely owned by Microsoft.

I transcribed the notes by ear, arranged it for solo piano, recorded it for my own learning experience, which I share.

One of my favorite things about this piece is the slow evolution of the theme. It begins in a solo, is accompanied by harmonies gradually (with counter melodies also, at C), evolves into a different theme in a different mode (i.e. from major to minor, at D), is sped up rhythmically (rhythms now have half value), changes modes, changes keys (all at E), then erupts into a joyful section (at F) before returning to the original key and theme (at G).

The piece manages to capture peacefulness, a bit of darkness, and great majesty all in 2-3 minutes, and it is very seamless. Overall, it is a giant crescendo climaxing about 2/3 of the way through.

The tempo and orchestration (in the original) capture the depth of this game, Rise of Nations. The visuals, sound effects, and music all strongly work towards this "massive" scale of the concept.

The harmonies are often quartal (in 4ths) and likely a result of leading tones and melody (not a result of focus on traditional triads). The modes are major, minor, and mixolydian (hence the Eb's) primarily.