recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Choose your own adventure – six new works for concert band!
Arctic Wars (Rise of the Penguin Army) by Brian Balmages, Grade 1
Dark harmonies create a menacing atmosphere in the opening of this engaging work. As the pace quickens, powerful themes combine with aggressive rhythmic lines, layered with ominous motives throughout. An amazing combination of heroism, uncertainty, and uplifting peaks, this highly imaginative work has it all!
Carpe Diem by Danny Choi, Grade 3.5
“Carpe Diem” was written for the Argyle Secondary School in Vancouver and premiered at the final senior band concert of 2016, with the composer conducting his peers. The work is intended to have fun parts for all of the band to play. From loud, brassy trombone parts to a triumphant fanfare of trumpets; from wind runs to percussion swells, the piece is very satisfying to perform. With the triumphant nature of the piece, the school’s motto, “Carpe Diem,” was chosen as its title.
Dragon Dance by Ed Huckeby, Grade 2
Every young band musician wants to perform “real” music! “Dragon Dance” has tremendous appeal, and outstanding melodic and harmonic content. The driving rhythms will make your students want to play it during every rehearsal and on every concert! While very playable, the musical value is truly exceptional. Great for contest or concert…or any performance situation! Highly recommended!
Dragonrider by Steve Parsons, Grade 4
“Dragonrider” takes the listener on a twisting, soaring journey astride a powerful fire-breathing dragon as it flies over mountaintop castles and the roaring sea. Inspired by the imagery of popular fantasy works such as those by J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and J.K. Rowling, the piece is filled with exciting percussion and wind effects that still sit well within the range and reach of most concert and symphonic bands.
Escape from Thunder Mountain by Scott Watson, Grade 1.5
The tropical island volcano, “Thunder Mountain,” has lain dormant for years. As a party of adventurous researchers work atop the legendary mountain, it begins to shake with pre-eruption tremors!
Escape Route by Todd Stalter, Grade 3
“Escape Route” contains musical explorations of the many different actions implied in its title, such as quickness, stealth, boldness, evasion, elusiveness, and the adrenaline rush that accompanies them.
No matter what your in-person or remote teaching requires, shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grade 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, and hockey (especially the Penguins).
Categories: Concert Band, New Publications, Staff Picks
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