Concert and Contest Band Music

This impression of the hustle and bustle of a busy city day and the chase to accomplish daily goals offers many opportunities for the development of performers' musical skills. The day unfolds, starting

With flowing melodic lines and rich harmonic textures throughout, this work depicts a journey down the beautiful Niagara River. The music gradually builds in intensity as the river gains strength, until it

Based on Psalm 137, this work, filled with dynamic contrasts, was written in memory of fellow composer and friend Claude T. Smith.  While the overall effect is dramatic and extremely emotional, the

This beautiful descriptive work begins with a slow, lyrical melody reminiscent of the flowing waters of Tolenas Springs, California that were believed to have restorative powers. The music then evolves into

This highly programmatic work begins with an original waltz that sets a circus atmosphere. Soon after, the circus has packed up and the train begins to move to its next destination, but trouble looms in the

Beautifully arranged by J. Eric Wilson along with the composer, this version for wind band maintains all the wonder and magic of the original choral work. The opening is ethereal and somber, with sustained

You'll want to be sure to begin your next program with this vibrant concert opener that is both impressive and inspiring. The ecstatic opening material is followed by a series of sweeping melodic lines that

A powerfully emotional lyrical work about finding peace in the darkest times. Flowing lines and rich textures create a mood of struggle and reflection. A brief narration about helping others in their time

This piece is joyful and celebratory, ideal for opening or closing a concert or festival performance. A number of triumphant fanfares are featured throughout, followed by short flourishes that create a

Written by a Finnish composer, this piece has a compelling Eastern flavor created by extensive use of the harmonic minor scale. Starting with a bravura trumpet solo, it blossoms into a duet for two

This composition based upon the American jazz and big-band tradition that was popular in the 1930s and 1940s is one movement from a larger three-movement suite, American Dances, originally

This beautiful ballad for concert band is based on a melody written by the composer's father. Skillfully scored to expose students to more complex harmonies reminiscent of Percy Grainger, this wonderful

Einherjar are mighty Viking warriors of old that reside in Valhalla. These heroes of myth train for battle and occasionally return to earth to do battle with various enemies that threaten mankind. Their

An impressive piece at this grade level that features syncopated rhythms and mixed meters. The lush and beautiful slow section adds an effective contrast to the exciting and active rhythmic drive.

This exotic original work takes musicians and audiences on a fantastic adventure. Mysterious melodies based on the double harmonic minor scale, ear-grabbing harmonies, and whirlwind tempo changes will sweep

Originally written for organ, this thoughtful and expressive work adapts perfectly for four-part flex band. Whether performing with four players or a full wind ensemble, the long, cantabile melodic lines

In 2013, the wreckage of a schooner named Atlas was discovered in Lake Ontario, having sunk during a violent storm in 1839. You can re-create the events of this historic event through the descriptive music