Purple Carnival (YouTube)

Performed at top speed:
Dreyfoos School of the Arts Wind Ensemble performed 2008

This one’s a bit more sedate:
Mt. Carmel Wind I performed 2006

Also a rather sedate tempo:
Unknown performing group uploaded 2010

Program notes:

The Purple Carnival March was written by American composer Harry L. Alford. Alford was born in 1883 and grew up in Hudson, Michigan. In his youth, he quickly became an accomplished trombonist, composer, and arranger. He wrote his first march at the age of 14, which was performed by a military band that came through his town. Principally self-taught, his only formal musical training came from a three year stint at the Dana School of Music in Ohio. Over the years, Alford’s music became well known in the school and college band settings, as the composer received many commissions from major universities across the country.

The Purple Carnival March was written for Alford’s good friend, bandmaster Glenn Cliffe Bainum, and the Northwestern University Band. It has been staple of the standard march literature ever since its premiere in 1933. Its unique 6/8 feel, technical woodwind lines, and powerful low brass melodies make for an interesting and exciting listening experience.