Band

Commissioned by the bands from Tecumseh Middle School and Sunnyside Middle School, Lafayette, Indiana, directed by Jeffrey T. Parthun, Sr. and Ned H. Boyd. Modal harmonies evoke images of America as far back as the 1700s. The influence of the Native American tribes in the area is felt in this powerful overture. Rhythmic and contrapuntal action stake a claim to the audience's attention from the opening notes. This one is perfect for festival or concert. Commissioned for massed Middle School band concert, it works great with groups large or small. Cross-curricular potential with History. Bold and decisive!

This cheerful and engaging new piece by Graydon Toms is a sure winner for every Grade 1.5 band. Big areas of contrast between the upper woodwinds and the brass and saxophone combination ensure that each player feels important to the group, while an easy change of tempo near the end helps the piece sound harder than it plays. Whimsical!

We teach. They learn. At least that's how it's supposed to be. Sometimes, though, it's hard to find performance literature that lets us continue teaching the basics while we prepare the beginning band for a concert. We need easy performance music that helps make basic techniques come alive for the students. Composed by a full-time young band director, Abaco Beach Vacation is designed to do just that. There are a lot of great suggestions included in the Notes to the Director, which will help get them playing the way you'd like them to. Let them have fun while they learn!

This piece is dedicated to all the citizens who live, have lived, and will live in the US town of Algona, who commissioned the work to celebrate its 150th anniversary. With dark-tinted tones (low drums, heavy brass), this overture begins with a primitive sacred feel, it seems as if centuries-old Indian singing is heard once more. Gradually the sound becomes clearer and brighter as the same theme travels throughout the band in various guises and variants. Imposing tutti passages then give the band the chance to lavishly shine. This bright and catchy overture radiates spontaneous energy and as it features every section of the band all the players as well as the listeners are continually surprised and captivated.