American composer Peter Mennin chose this title in homage to the Renaissance instrumental forms of that name. Like the canzoni of Gabrieli, this work features contrasting, antiphonal statements from opposing voices; Mennin has combined that with modern harmony and structure. The work was commissioned in 1950 as part of an effort by Edwin Goldman to develop a significant repertoire for concert band. Mennin wrote six symphonies, concertos, sonatas and choral works; Canzona is the only piece he wrote for concert band. He was on the music faculty of Juilliard School of Music for decades. --James Huff 21:18, March 25, 2007 (EDT) (from the program notes of The Claremont Winds, submitted with permission)