Lyrical Selections for Concert Band

From Leonard Bernstein's 1956 operetta Candide, the remarkably beautiful closing number has gone on to become a beloved and familiar classic, taking on a life all its own. Arranged here for younger

This terrific work is a wonderful adaptation of the middle movement of the larger work Wine-Dark Sea: Symphony for Band. It's meant to represent the song of the beautiful and immortal nymph Kalypso

The beautiful English/Irish folk song Kathleen Mavourneen is the basis for this expressive and moving ballad. The lyric quality of the melody is further enhanced by the warm harmonies and rich

Based on a Newfoundland folk song, we are given an exceptionally beautiful setting that expresses a story of lost love. It begins with a transparent orchestration contrasted nicely with the later entrance

A lush and dramatic piece for concert band that reflects upon loved ones lost, in this case in remembrance of the composer's late brother whose astrological sign was Virgo. It's an emotional harmonic

A gorgeously expressive composition that depicts the changing of the seasons from summer to fall to winter. The beautiful motifs combine with lush harmonies to represent the changing moods we experience

This moving hymn has long been a staple in celebrations of life and for comfort in moments of sorrow; this setting is meant as a celebration of the life of a fellow musician and composer. The impassioned

This solemn and reverent arrangement was written for the ceremonies commemorating the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Beginning and ending with the tolling of a chime or ship's bell, this

The somber and majestic music conveys a strong feeling of hope and peacefulness. The flowing nature of the melody, combined with sounds of the ocean creates a sense of calm wonder, suggesting the vast size

Austere and beautiful, these two Ave Marias were written about 400 years apart for Masses in both the Catholic and Russian Orthodox Churches. The intensely spiritual nature of these two works makes

This touching lullaby uses a melody that the composer sang to his son during the first few weeks of the baby's life. Marked by warmth, radiance, and simplicity, the music reflects the wonder and beauty of a

Showcase your band's command of musicianship with this beautiful ballad. The reflective and sensitive elements of the melody are featured before leading to a decidedly heroic climax contrasted by a

"Nostalgia" refers to a sentimental longing or wistful recollection of the past, typically for a time or place associated with happy memories. This composition incorporates two melodic themes that combine

This unique and free style setting of the hymn song What Wondrous Love focuses on the variety and appeal of tonal colors and instrumental textures possible with wind band instrumentation, bringing

This superb setting of the popular hymn features delicate sonorities combined with shimmering metallic percussion for a moving, lyrical and expressive selection. Artistic percussion performance is on full

The beautiful simplicity of this moving hymn is given a respectful, touching treatment in this lyric setting. Rich and expressive textures introduce a solo presentation of the melody which is cross-cued for

This touching lullaby is a moving tribute written in memory of a charming little girl. The flowing melody and warm harmonies display a beautiful childlike innocence that will create a special moment on any

Rays of sun dancing through a cloudy sky are beautifully painted in sound. The main theme is skillfully presented in different guises, shifting throughout the work much like clouds that change shape as they

Suitable for contest or festival use, this early American hymn tune features a wonderful flowing melody, warm harmonies, and a variety of dynamic contrasts. Well written and scored for flexible

The title of this expansive work draws inspiration from a poem by Robert Frost, and the thematic material is a creative interpretation of the English folk song Seventeen Come Sunday. Differing from

Original melodies are used to capture the essence of beautiful Celtic folk songs. This ballad is lush, richly scored, and contains beautiful countermelodies that are every bit as beautiful as the main

The combination of graceful melodies and soaring countermelodies are blended with carefully scored dissonances that are rare at this grade level. Rhythms and ranges are accessible for younger players so

This beautiful ballad is a wonderful example of effective lyrical writing style. The masterful orchestration serves to enhance the flowing melodic lines and colorfully unique harmonies. A sensitive alto

Inspired by the calm serenity of the lake which is the setting for one of America's premiere fine arts camps, this beautiful ballad provides an excellent opportunity for teaching legato style and phrasing.