Band

The familiar and beloved Ave Maria was originally written as part of Franz Schubert's setting of Sir Walter Scott's narrative poem, The Lady of the Lake. Over the course of time, the German translation from Schubert's setting has been replaced by the traditional Latin prayer so often that the song has become known primarily as Ave Maria. This lyrical melody, stirring in its simplicity, is complemented by a murmuring accompaniment that imitates a harp, a feature that Thomas Doss fully does justice to in this arrangement. Dur: 6:25

Black River Overture was commissioned by the music society Pfarrkapelle Schwarzenbach on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. Schwarzenbach literally means black brook - hence the title of the work. This light-hearted piece is a compliment to all music societies and concert bands that have continued despite alternative, modern leisure-time activities. They are able to offer a wonderful and meaningful occupation to both the young and young-at-heart-making music! A wonderful light work that will add color to all your concert programs. Dur: 6:00

This brilliant composition by Otto M. Schwarz reflects the adventurous life of the historical figure Napoleon Bonaparte. Probably the best-known Frenchman of all time, he developed exceptional military talent and eventually became emperor of France. Relive the golden French age with this fantastic work for concert band. Dur: 14:45 (Grade 5)

Cantus is the Latin word for song - and so this piece is a meditation set to music in a melodious vocal style. It should motivate both players and audience to turn their gaze inward, to switch off and let themselves be carried away by the music, to find an inner rest that opens up a window to the self. Cantus will add a touch of tranquility and well-being to any concert. Dur: 8:10

While it can be fairly easy to select a musical piece for the beginning of a concert, the search for a proper closing piece can sometimes be more difficult. A desire to fill this gap was Stefan Schwalgin's motivation for this Farewell Medley. In this piece he has woven four world-famous folk tunes from the Anglo/Irish/Scottish culture (Danny Boy, Amazing Grace, The Last Post and Auld Lang Syne) into a high-quality arrangement that allows the band to display its full range of colors at the end of any concert. Dur: 5:50