Band

Normally, a church is a place for silence, prayer and meditation. The contrary is true in Giacomo Puccini's opera Tosca - he turns the Roman basilica Sant' Andrea della Valle into a playground for hiding rebels, jealous lovers, sanctimonious fresco painters and invading police officers. Johan de Meij's exciting arrangement of the finale of the first Act from Tosca can be performed instrumental, or with a vocal soloist (Scarpia : Baritone) and choir (SATB) Dur: 5:15 (Grade 3)

One of Moussorgsky's lesser known works turns out to be a great concert opener in this attractive arrangement by Johan de Meij. Dur: 5:45 (Grade 5)

One of Moussorgsky's lesser known works turns out to be a great concert opener in this attractive arrangement by Johan de Meij. Dur: 5:45 (Grade 5)

One of Moussorgsky's lesser known works turns out to be a great concert opener in this attractive arrangement by Johan de Meij. Dur: 5:45 (Grade 5)

Here is a spectacular concert opener inspired by the glamour and spirit of the city of Chicago. This was commissioned by the Northshore Concert Band commemorating their 50th anniversary. Dur: 4:00 (Grade 4)

Commissioned for a gala concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Northshore Concert Band of Evanston, Illinois, Johan de Meij wrote this overture with his annual travels to the city of Chicago in mind. The dazzling architecture, fabulous resaurants, swinging jazz clubs and yes - the wind that gives the city its nickname - result in a short and energetic work, incorporating the spirit and power of a fascinating city.

Poland boasts a very rich tradition as to Christmas Carols. In this suite, you can hear a combination of church hymns and a folk music character.