Band

Slane, an Irish folk song that appears towards the end of Prelude on an Irish Folk Tune, is a hymn tune version of the much older folk melody The Banks of the Bann. In this composition, fragments of this melody are introduced, hinting at what is to come later in the piece, but another folk-like tune is predominant. This theme later acts as a descant to Slane when it finally appears. Add a little Sparke sparkle to any concert with this lovely interlude. Dur: 4:00

Prelude to a Celebration is a fantastic way to open any concert in the tradition of great symphonic openers. The work starts with a triumphant yet majestic fanfare from the trumpet section, which gives the basis for the whole work. A rollicking and driving faster section follows for the woodwinds, which leads into a broader trio before the opening fanfare returns to bring the work to a majestic conclusion. Whatever the occasion (or celebration), Prelude to a Celebration is one piece that is sure to have your audience on the edge of their seat and start your performance off in the finest of styles. Dur: 5:10

A Quiet Moment was written in memory of James Philip Krofta, a highly respected American conductor who died in the year 2006. The calm, willful composition of Philip Sparke is equally at home on the concert platform as in the contest arena or at significant remembrance events when a quiet moment is required. Dur: 4:30

This march from Philip Sparke is in the tradition of English ceremonial or concert marches, such as the masterpieces written by Sir Edward Elgar and Sir William Walton. It attempts to continue this tradition with a march for intermediate band that has all the recognizable hallmarks of a ceremonial march, such as broad melodies, counter melodies, and a nobilmente trio. Dur: 5:10

Salute to a Hero opens with a brass fanfare, decorated by the woodwinds. After a short bridge passage the fanfare reappears, played by the full band. A central lyrical section brings a mood of calm and contrasts brass and woodwind sections before the fanfare returns bringing the work to a dramatic finish. Dur: 2:00 (Grade 4)

This work has no specific programme, but represents scenes from an imaginary pantomime in the commedia dell'arte tradition. A fine work with many contrasts, from triumphal fanfares through tender waltzes to a peasant dance, this major new work for advanced concert bands is sure to become a much-performed item in your concert repertoire. Dur: 8:30

The River Wye is one of longest rivers in the United Kingdom and forms a part of the border between England and Wales. The river takes its source from the Welsh mountains and curves gracefully through some of the favorite landscapes of Philip Sparke. It crosses the picturesque cities of Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye, Hereford, and Hay-on-Wye. Tales of the River Wye tells of an afternoon on the banks of the river. A splendid and serene addition to the concert band repertoire. Dur: 3:20

Klezmer music originated in the 'shtetl (villages) and the ghettos of Eastern Europe, where itinerant Jewish troubadours, known as klezmorim, had performed at celebrations, particularly weddings, since the early Middle Ages. Three Klezmer Miniatures uses the following traditional tunes: 1. Sham Harei Golan (There are the mountains of Golan) and Nigun Shel Yossi, a circle dance. 2. Tumbalalaika, a Russian Jewish love song. 3. Hava Nagila, perhaps the most famous of all Jewish folk dances; the title means let us rejoice. Bring the spirit of Klezmer to your next concert with this exciting piece. Dur: 7:00 (Grade 4)