Hear streaming audio on this page. The crescendo and diminuendo in measures 31-38 need to be carefully controlled. The clarinet tune should be played semi- legato, not short and choppy. There should be an easy, relaxed feel to the tune, with a light ensemble accompaniment. The countermelody should be highlighted, beginning in measure 65.
Intonation is critical for piccolo, oboe, muted trumpet, and bells.
The shifting ensemble chords must be as smooth as possible, with no change in volume between the brass group and the reed group. A continual slowing should begin in measure 110 and the concluding measures should be played as slowly and softly as possible. Timpani and string basses should hold their final note for a very long time, always diminishing toward inaudibility. The use of several string basses will greatly improve the ensemble sound of America Verses. If string basses are not available, the timpani roll at the end of the work may need to be played a little more loudly.