Marshall's Civic Band

    One of the famous traditions of the bullfight spectacle, which originated in 
Spain, is that when a toreador has triumphed over his bull, and his performance 
has received the enthusiastic approval of the aficionados, he is awarded the ear 
of the defeated animal.  In addition, in years past, the award gave him 
possession of the carcass of the bull which was sold as additional remuneration. 
In 1924 a more suitable and enduring reward was conceived in the form of "The 
Golden Ear" trophy which was first presented to Rodolfo Gaona. 
    Mariano San Miguel, Spanish bandsman, composer, and music publisher, has 
written an unusually colorful paso doble (two-step) for band.  Entitled "The 
Golden Ear" (La Oreja de Oro), it portrays much of the musical and emotional 
excitement of the bull ring.  Harold Walters' attractive arrangement of this 
composition makes it available to Concert Bands throughout this country for the 
first time.