First Flight
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) Technical Specs: Grade 1, key of concert Bb, 4/4, clarinets do not cross the break, trumpets 1’s top out briefly at their third space C, every section has a significant part but seconds are notably easier than firsts, only quarters, halfs, wholes, and eights are used, bass clef instruments have the melody part of the time to build strength. A big favorite among my clients; a best-seller with a full sound and a noble bearing.
Wayward March
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) Technical Specs: Grade 1-1/2, key of concert Bb, 4/4, 1st clarinets can optionally cross the break if they dare, 1st trumpets peak at their third space C, every section plays a significant role to build ensemble strength. A strong pulse underlies the catchy melody which everyone shares, and the middle section has an exciting build into flowing lines. The kids will be proud of the solid performance this one can provide.
Our Brass Has Class
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) Technical Specs: Grade 2, Key of concert Eb, 4/4, first clarinets cross the break, trumpet 1's peak at their top line F. A great brass feature (obviously), it also needs a strong snare and timpani player to make it fly. A hard-driving rhythm underscores tight brass harmony, and the ending fanfare in the trumpet 1's is a powerful challenge. The kids (especially the brass players) love this one!
Battle of the Band
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) (Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 2 and 1/2, keys of concert Bb and Eb as well as some dissonant tonalities, 4/4, 1st trumpets peak at their 4th line D, a clarinet feature where firsts cross the break, an effective and easy way to introduce both 16th notes and dissonances, ensemble parts at end require some independence but are doubled across sections. See program notes for more details on this fun program piece…a favorite among the kids, especially the clarinets.
Of Courage and Honor
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) (Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 3, keys of concert Bb Major and a mode of Eb, 4/4 and 3/4, 1st trumpets have an optional G above the staff, as do 1st clarinets, flute 1s go up to high Fs, there is an alto sax feature in the “B” sections, there are dotted eights-sixteenth combos, each section plays a significant part to build ensemble strength. See program notes for more details. Another best seller, this patriotic tribute was played by a local professional (AFM) concert band in their summer concert series several years in a row.
Fanfare and Regalia
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) Technical Specs: Grade 3, keys of concert Eb, Ab, and F, 1st trumpets peak at 4th line D with an optional high G, French Horn peaks at top space E, 1st AND 2nd clarinets go over the break, 1st flutes have some high Eb's and F's. Featuring prominent solo parts for trumpet, horn, alto sax, and bass clarinet, there are also challenging descant lines for flutes and clarinets. However, many of the inner parts are accessible to even beginning players, making this chart flexible enough to challenge your hotshots while not losing those with potential. An excellent concert opener or closer, this regal march abounds with pomp and flourish.
To Stand Before Kings
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) (Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 3-1/2. Key of concert Bb (and some related minor modes), common time throughout. Trumpet 1's peak at G above the staff, Bone 1's at C above the staff, and Horn 1 has one high G above the staff. Energetic and exciting, yet accessible to intermediate bands, this military tribute is a strong statement. There are some brief opening solos in trumpet and horn 1s, and the middle section has a powerful bone feature under delicate woodwinds. The timpani and snare players will love the exposed solos and unstoppable pulse. See the program notes for more flavor!
Triumph
(Listen to Mp3 Performance) (Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 4. Keys of concert G, C, and a bit of Bb, common time with a few 2/4 bars in the B section. Trumpet 1's go up to high G above the staff, bone 1's go up to high Ab (optional), horn 1's go up to G above the staff. Your brass section will love the challenge of this piece, which features fanfares galore and thick, rich harmonies. The woodwinds (especially clarinets) will love the B section where they can shine. Finally, the percussion will love the unstoppable snare part, thunder and lightning peaks, and delicate yet frisky bells. All over a great tribute to our military with a compelling forward motion and huge climax!
The Intruguing Contraptions of Ignatious Q. Fizzbiddle
(A suite in 5 Parts)
Listen to Mp3 Performances of each movement by clicking the names below:
I. The Cacophonous, Semi-Automatic Bombasticator
II. Fizzbiddle's Disturbing Cognitions
III. The Magnificent Crystal Chronometer
IV. The (Largely Functional) Aerial Locomotovator
V. The Neverending Loop Of Perpetual Continuance
(Read Program Notes
PDF) Technical Specs:
Grade 4-˝ . A suite in 5 parts, this fun piece can feature a good
percussion section, with many strong players necessary and several solo
parts for the superstars. The theme found in the first of the five brief
movements is taken through a wide variety of treatments as the piece
progresses. A favorite of audiences and directors alike, I have gotten many
positive comments on the novelty and entertainment value of the piece, as
well as the musical challenges not only for the percussionists but for the
whole ensemble. Please see the program notes- they are part of the
performance, setting the scene for the audience’s imaginary journey.
Those Valiant Few
(Listen to Mp3 Sample) (Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 5. Key of concert Ab, 6/8, Trumpet 1’s peak at High C above the staff, brass has to double-tongue, there is a delicate clarinet solo in the middle section, and a woodwind feature to rest up the brass chops for the finale. This grand statement to our military has a powerful, flowing 6/8 feel lead by the lower brass and wwds, and two great fanfare peaks involving ripping chromatics. Please see the program notes for this patriotic tribute, a great concert closer with a powerful ending.
Tales Of Darkmoor
(Listen to Mp3 Performance by Concert Band)
(Listen to Mp3 Performance by Symphony Orchestra)
(Read Program Notes PDF) Technical Specs: Grade 5+. Keys of Bb, F, Eb, Db, some atonality, meters include 4/4, 3/4, 6/8, and some parts switch between 3 and 4 liberally. Trumpet 1's peak only at their A above the staff, bones peak at high Ab (with an optional Bb), horns have high Gs with optional As and Bbs. Running time approx 13 minutes. Your kiddos will feel like they're playing a movie soundtrack as this epic adventure progresses. For more depth of imagination and enjoyment, let the kids have a copy of the program notes as you pass out the piece on the first day of rehearsal, so they can get to know the characters and adventures they're performing. Available for both band and orchestra, this piece is an all-time favorite of kids, directors, and audiences alike...an unforgettable experience all will remember for years to come!
