Band

Adapted from the Mannheim Steamroller CD A Fresh Aire Christmas, this is actually two publications in one! First is a glorious fanfare in the High Renaissance tradition of antiphonal brass choirs echoing one another. Next is a contemporary Mannheim treatment of the familiar carol, complete with a rock groove combining rhythmic and harmonic surprises. Performed individually or as a set, this is a terrific and unique addition to the holiday repertoire for concert bands.

Commissioned by the Gamma Eta chapter of Phi Mu Alpha, at Furman University, Greenville, SC, this impressive work is built around two chorale themes and a recurring fanfare. After the boldly stated opening, a bright allegro developmental section becomes increasingly more intense until a dramatic cadence is reached. At this point, antiphonal brass (3 trumpets, 2 trombones) soar above the ensemble and play a grandiose version of the first chorale. The band re-enters and both ensembles play the climactic ending to the work, in a new key, and with both hymns being heard simultaneously. Marvelous work! (6:00)

Explorer - Beginning Level An important ingredient in your beginning band's first concert is a suitable march. What better choice than this gem from Michael Sweeney that guarantees success right from the start. A powerful-sounding fanfare leads to a march theme built on only quarter and half notes. Also included is a short feature for the percussion section. A winner! Dur: 1:50

Grade 2 Characteristic of Richard's distinctive style, this impressive piece features a rhythmic vitality throughout, along with fresh harmonies and skilled orchestrational devices. Amid the powerful fanfare-like phrases, Richard creates a brief calm section using the woodwinds and a unique layering effect before building to the dynamic ending. Great sounds for young players - all in one tempo throughout! Dur: 2:30

A jubilant way to open any holiday concert.

Jim Curnow provides an outstanding setting of this triumphant theme from Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. A great concert opener!

This is probably the most performed arrangement of our national anthem ever written for marching band! Inspiring and solidly scored.

Disney's eagerly awaited new movie is sure to be a huge hit with audiences everywhere. This medley features excerpts of Carnival Of The Animals, Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, The Sorcerer's Apprentice, and The Firebird Suite.

This piece combines the simple, elegant thematic material of Elizabethan church composer Thomas Tallis, expanded and modernized through the luxurious harmonies of Ralph Vaughan Williams. A setting for band was long overdue, and Jay Bocook does a masterful job of transforming the original work for string orchestra into a magnificant setting for winds. Fantasia was used to great effect in the recent film Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Dur: 3:45 (Includes full performance CD)