Viking Spirit

Viking Spirit was commissioned by the Readington Middle School Vikings band program (NJ) and their director Mrs. Samantha Lestrange. When approached by Samantha, she noted to me that they wanted something bold like a fanfare or concert opener, something to challenge yet motivate and excite her students! The work was premiered jointly with the Whitehouse Wind Symphony in May of 2025. This work is centered around the skill set of a developing middle school ensemble. It is structured in Rondo form incorporating catchy rhythms, strategic repetition, and thorough use of dynamics and expression to build interest around a powerful theme. While the high winds carry the melody in the main theme, low winds and percussion provide a solid bass line and rhythmic accompaniment. This flexible adaptation allows you to create unique instrument groupings within the instrumentation you already have. This gives you the opportunity to play the piece effectively and musically, even if you do not have a full band available to you. Strings parts (Edited by Mr. Alexandre F. Soares) are also included for an opportunity to form a flexible symphony orchestra. Bowings and fingerings are included as a guide in all string parts. As an added bonus, all student parts contain a scannable QR code to be able to practice along with a rhythm section track and a full performance track via YouTube! If you're looking for an inspirational and fresh-sounding piece, this is sure to inspire your musicians and instill a profound sense of pride and spirit!